All Good - Thus Far!

I love this pix taken at Zion National Park a few years back. Yep, many more recent pix of the kiddos, but this still is my favorite. Why am I using it again?

Well, recently I read someones posting on running streaks. The author was stating all the reasons why for it. I guess they were doubting just why it was important or even beneficial. Understandable. I mean just doing 1-2 miles at a snails pace doesn't seem like much. Especially, when it's just to keep some seemingly vain thing going. However, in the end it was beneficial for that runner.

Even though I am only into my streak at least 17 days of documented runs (ones I officially inputted into my log; I think I have been at it for 20-21 days now - yes I was getting lazy at that as well); I can honestly say it has been WELL worth it. Here is why:

* Consistency. Yes, I had injuries as an excuse. Yet, still even with that stated, I felt badly inconsistent, especially August-November of last year. Well, I also had a move that never happened taking up ALL my spare time during those months.

* (This is a shot in dark) Thinking it will actually KEEP me from injuries. Mainly Achilles problem. I have noticed the Achilles flare up happens mostly after a rest day or more. Thus far, I have had a few pings and tweaks - NO PAIN! I also ice both ankles two-three times a day as well. Might be overkill on the ice, yet it seems to be working. No pain and in fact, it feels STRONGER. The daily stretch followed by at least 1.2 - 2 mile run really seems to be helping (cross my fingers), over just stretching alone on the rest/recovery days.

* Improved form. The daily running has been perfect for this. Even if my body and mind are exhausted, I find myself to be in instant form from the first step. The habit of running daily has made this a healthy habit. Which also could be the reason why the Achilles/Heel are feeling strong.

* Husky Dawg is enjoying the extra attention. Another New Years goal was walking her daily for at least 1 mile or more. Well, she gets that now and more. She is running with me on many of the runs as well. So, if you are keeping track - some days include a run and at least 1 mile walk or more. The other days she just runs with me.

* The unexpected is the best part. Deciding to use some of these runs for Daddy time with kiddos. One at a time. This has been a MasterCard priceless moment. It has been the best individual times of late with each one of my kids. We talk, we run, we laugh and we play. LOVE IT!

I don't recommend streaking (or, even unclothed kind) for everyone. Yet, for me, it is what I need right now. As long I stay healthy, I will keep it going all year long. WORTH IT!

Cheers.