Run like the wind

As I write this, I'm smiling. I've been enjoying a 72-hour high. I'm not sure when it'll stop, but I hope it doesn't dim anytime soon.

Why, you might be wondering, does Brady have her usual grin permanently glued to her face. In the last 72 hours, I've been entertained by Ben's fun aunt and uncle, run a half-marathon (13.1, baby!), enjoyed the company of a dear pal and attended a funeral.

You're probably stumped on how running a 13.1 miles on a cold morning and going to a funeral can make a person happy. Allow me to explain.

I like to run, particularly with other people. There's nothing better than running with thousands of strangers in a new place. Together, you all aim for one goal -- to finish. Some might want to take home the purse. Others may want to improve their best time. Most just want to finish without dying first.

As you run with these strangers, you find instant friends. More strangers are cheering you on from the sidelines. Some are passing out candy, that extra boost to cross the finish line. They don't know you from Adam, but they're saying "Hey, buddy, you can do it." Or my favorite: "Looking strong!" To that one, I lift my head up and smile. Yep, looking strong.

The Baltimore half-marathon was like one big hill. In fact, it was steady hill after steady hill. But the challenge is partly why I'm so happy. I ran hard for 13.1 miles and swore at the hills, but my body felt right. I was hardly sore Sunday, and I'm feeling now pain today.

Basically, I'm ready for another race. Anyone care to join me?

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I'll have to write about the funeral tomorrow. I'm feeling scatter-brained right now.


Listening to:
Ray Charles (another reason for this euphoria)