We can't stop the rain here in Upstate, NY. However, we can adapt to it. I'm learning, if I apply the same mentality that I have all winter, my internal dialogue reads: "this is a time to enjoy the crisp, breathable air," "run through the snow, they made crampons for a reason," "cross country skiing is fun and relaxing at the same time, bring your phone and play your favorite music." I start with these ideas, and then I just go. I put on the coat, and the boots, and the gloves, and I go. Later on, when I come home, I am satisfied and fulfilled.
See, my Native roots keep me close to nature. Right now, as a person who works remote, and runs a business from home, I am finding that getting outside has become essential. That being said, I went for my 5 mile trail run this morning, (after like 5 months, not bragging). After I dropped my son off at school. I didn't just go for a run. It was raining, it was cold, I had a million really great excuses why I shouldn't go, but something in my inner kept telling me to just lace up and get out there. I even bought myself a new cute running jacket, athletic gear always motivates me.
So, I set my alarm for 7, enough time to down a couple of cups of pumpkin spice coffee, while watching NewsMax. Pinned some motivation/aspiration pins on Pinterest, and went up to get my son ready for the day. We set off at about twenty after, and the most interesting thing happened - I realized that I enjoyed the raindrops dripping on my skin. I actually took my hair down and let the droplets just fall on it, maybe why it is so soft now. I saw the trees swaying in the neighbors yards, and I admired the orange and red foliage surrounding me. I cautiously watched for snakes and butternuts. The snakes are fine - I just don't like them, but I did sprain my ankle on a butternut about one week ago. So, lesson learned - beware of butternuts - on your trail run through the forest full of twists and turns and critters unknown. The butternuts will take you down.
-Ashley Oliver
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