In high school, the answer to "Why I Run" would have been: to stay in shape for basketball.

In college, the answer to "Why I Run" would have been: to avoid the Freshman (and Sophomore, Junior and Senior) 15.

After I got married the answer to "Why I Run" would have been: to stay in shape, so I can eat what I want, and it's fun to go to the gym with Jon.

Then I had kids.

Then I took 5 years off of running.

I lost any shape I was ever in, gained the 15 anyway, needed to watch what I eat, and didn't go to the gym with Jon.

All bad.

In November 2009, I changed that. It's still hard to fit running into my schedule -- VERY hard. But now, this is why I run:

I run because it keeps me healthy. I run because I like to eat. I run because I want to set a good example for my kids. I run because the outdoors in springtime (except for the allergies) is the best place to be. I run because I want my kids to enjoy exercising.

This little guy...



... would go all day if we let him. He's a mile a minute, barrel of energy, go getter of a dude. Sure, he gets tired -- but he is only 3 after all. He boogied so fast on that bike of his that we couldn't keep up! We were shouting to get him to stop and turn back -- but he was so far ahead he couldn't hear us! (Not exactly a wise plan on a wooded bike path -- thankfully we're in a safe area... but still!)

He's a whiz on that bike, and loves every minute of it.



Can you tell?

This little gal...



... would probably prefer to watch movies and eat ice cream all day if I'd let her. She's about as chill and relaxed as they come. I love that about her -- she's a very "go with the flow" girl, and always has been. She adapts quickly to basically any situation we put her in.

But... she's never enjoyed exercise. Of any sort.

Until Friday.

Crazy girl wanted to ride her scooter, but couldn't keep up. So she ran. And ran. And ran. And ran. We followed a 1.8 mile loop, and she probably ran a mile of it.

And she's begging for more!

When we finished, she said, "Whew... I tired myself out so I can be healthy."

My heart swelled with pride! Way to go, kiddo!

Then last night, she said, "Mommy, when we go visit Uncle Greg again, can I run a half marathon with you?" Apparently I made it look too easy. *cough, cough* (how about swamp land in Florida?) I laughed and told her "let's start with a mile."

All weekend, she's been begging to go out running again (it's been raining though).

And at the end of the day... that's why I run. And why I can't let myself take a 5 year break again. It's not good for any of us!