XXX on the beach

Come on, you know me better than that. Of course, that was RUN on the beach!

It's all I thought it would be and then some. First of all, let's get things straight, it's difficult! I have been running maybe one or two songs less than at home. I blame this on a few things : the heat and red wine (and maybe a couple glasses of rhum). I have been extra careful about what goes into my body, especially the nights which precede a run (every other day that is), but still, I have to keep repeating my mantra over and over again : "I don't stop when I'm tired, I stop when I'm done!"

One thing is certain, running on the beach is great motivation. Let me explain. My ego has been crushed and rebuilt more times I can count since we've reached sunny Florida. The crushing part usually involves being passed by another runner and not for the life of me being able to latch on to him/her. Luckily this hasn't happened too much and when it has I could easily justify it by the fact that the ones who passed me were most definitely high school track and field stars (at least that's what was written across the back of their teeny tiny shorts more often than not). Then there were those who didn't seem sweaty or even remotely hot regardless of the very hot early morning sun. This, I am sure, is explained by the fact that they surely must live here based on their supertanned bodies which I am almost certain have never experienced the sunburns I am trying to avoid myself. On the other hand, my ego was rebuilt when I passed fellow runners myself with the wind in my hair. Sorry guys, I know how it feels, but I must say that it felt good!

But nothing beats the motivation which comes from seeing 50, 60, and maybe even a few 70-year olds running on the beach. Hats off to them! They are my running inspiration. High school track and field stars have nothing on them... they rock!!! Biggirl commented on one elderly running lady today stating that she was pretty old to jog. Heck yeah, but she was doing great and I hope I will continue running long enough for someone to say that about me one day...

A little taste of our current paradise

So here are a few pics just to keep you dreaming. They should provide at least a momentary escape from the snow, sleet, and rain present up north. Yes, we are feeling pretty darn lucky to be here. Temps have remained pretty much between 25 and 33 since we've arrived. Tomorrow, we're expecting a mere 22 degrees... hey, it's still flip-flop weather right? As you can see, I'm not the only one enjoying the sun and sand!
For those who are wondering, biggirl and hubby are absent from the pics since they were off exploring the surrounding islands on yet another motorcycle ride. Apparently there are plenty of wonderful sights, but I'm content right here on Estero Island, my favorite home away from home.