Motivation

This morning dawned dark, cold and foggy.  Determined to follow through on my goals and get moving once again, I donned some warm clothes, snuggled Beanie into the jog stroller, and we were off once the bus came and left.

I was only able to snap a couple of quick photos because I wanted to keep moving and because Ellie was none too pleased whenever I would pause for a moment.  Go go go seems to be her motivator.  :o)

 This image and the following were taken within mere seconds of each other, yet the lighting is so very different.

 I was able to jog for a bit here and there as well as walk, and I have to say, that yes, I feel good.  I didn't think I wouldn't, but I always forget how good I do feel once I've finished "exercising", whatever that may be.

Bean and I were mostly silent on our walk.  Sure, we sang a bit here and there, and yes, there was the occasional screech and squawk of displeasure when I would stop (only three times), but mostly, we were quiet.  All this silence allowed me to really tune into the morning world around me--the crunch of others' feet on the graveled and dirt path, the birds singing and calling to one another, the trickle of water, the snap and crack of something in the underbrush, the chatter of squirrels chastising one another. 

My heart was made glad and light and my batteries recharged.  This is the way to begin the day. :o)

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Today's Sparklies:

1. I fear we may have no snow this year.  The winter has been so mild, and well, warm that I just don't see any white fluffy in our future.  In fact, it's been so warm we have a number of confused plants out and about:

 2.  Look at this imp:

How can you not smile when faced with this?  Even if it does interrupt your picture taking to keep you moving along the trail.
3.  And, her hair is long enough I've started pulling it back to keep it out of her face. 

 How in the world has the child's hair grown so quickly?
4.  My lunch was divine and I had to share:

Oh this was satisfying on so many levels. That would be chicken salad in the 'cado and it was tasty. :o)
5.  I have pintos in the crock pot and they smell tasty too.  I swear, my stomach is rumbling even as I type.  We'll have them with some fresh bread and a nice salad.  Mm. :o)
6.  My morning walk.  It wasn't a stroll and it wasn't a power walk, but it was a good brisk clip and I feel good.

No milestones.