Overflowing With Gratitude

While out on a run with Joe a few days ago I was overwhelmed with the feeling of gratitude. This is not the first time this has happened - I am often overcome with that sense of gratitude when I run in our hometown because of the beauty that surrounds me. I look out at the seemingly endless Pacific ocean and the beautiful coastline carved out by the surf and am reminded of how small I am in a big world controlled by someone MUCH bigger than me. It quickly puts me in my place.

The coastal trial where we run and bike. Seriously? Right. Beside. The. Ocean.

This particular day, my mind raced. I realized how blessed my family is and how blessed I am physically to be able to run.
My legs work.
My legs allow me to run.

My body is strong. It can  withstand runs longer than I ever thought possible and workout harder than I thought possible.
I am healthy.
My vision allows me to see the bluffs meeting the sandline, the ocean, the sunrises and sunsets, and all of the beauty around me. I can watch our amazing children grow and change.
My feet carry me miles and miles but hardly ever complain.
I can run. I am fit enough to run.
We have two healthy kids riding in the double stroller. I (sometimes) have enough oxygen to answer their questions as I run.

I am running with my best friend/husband who is pushing said double stroller.
I get to spend my life with someone that respects me, who challenges me, who helps me be a better me.

I have parents that love me and my family more than I can even imagine.
A brother and sister that love and support me no matter what.
I live in one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen.

And the list went on and on......

I am blessed.

It is easy to get caught up in the day to day routine and lose sight of the things that make our life possible. I am glad this run (and others) can help provide that perspective.

Then while out for a run yesterday I saw a man in a wheelchair on bluffs overlooking the ocean. Seeing him remind me, yet again, to be thankful for everything my body can do. There will be a time that I am not able to do the things I can now. So, I will appreciate it, respect it and be thankful for it.