There is nothing like going for a 3 mile run in the middle of nowhere. Last week I was overwhelmed by the simplicity and wonder of the information my senses were taking in. The first thing I noticed was the sound of the gravel road turning beneath my feet as I ran. A steady scrape, reminding me of the distance I was covering. This was accompanied by two similar sounds, the trotting of my four-legged friends Sadie and Bailey. The dogs always maintain a good speed a few feet ahead of me and I could tell that they were so happy that I took them on an adventure across the countryside. The sound that stuck out the most as we ran was chirping of crickets. If I didn’t know better I would have thought that the small creatures were hiding in the ditches having orchestra practice. How else could such a small insect make such a big noise? In my mind the answer would definitely be that they have organized a symphony just to entertain me. I could also hear a variety of birds singing along from the telephone lines and trees that they were perched on. The wind provided a soothing rustle in the long grass and I must say I am now reminded of August Rush. Am I the conductor? Why no, God is. I am just the audience, soaking it all in.
The view was just as spectacular. I have run the same roads for years now but it is always just what I need: A peaceful place to burn some calories and let my thoughts flow freely. My favorite time to run is in the evening, while the sun is sinking lower in the sky. The fields turn the most amazing golden-yellow which complements the oranges, pinks and blues above. I occasionally watch my shadow mimicking me since the light allows me to do so. I run past my grandparents’ farm, by the adorable calves who recently were upgraded from their hutches to a small pasture of their own. They are curious yet timid, always stopping to watch me run by, however, maintaining their distance. I give them my best “MOOOOOO” and I usually get one back. The adult cows are just as curious but a lot more brave. They lined up along the fence line as I approached their pasture and stared at me. To my surprise, when I reached them they didn’t just watch me run by like they usually do. Instead, the whole herd ran alongside of me until the size of their pasture stopped them. What an awesome sight! The one brown and white cow, who I named Caramel, in the sea of black and white was leading the herd. It makes me smile to think that this chase that I created was probably the biggest adventure they had all day.
I could go on and on about the sights I saw and the things I felt forever, but I will refrain. However, I do find it necessary to add that I wasn’t disturbed by vehicles driving past me. I didn’t hear sirens wailing. There was no litter on the ground. I didn’t have to share sidewalks with other joggers. I didn’t have a sidewalk at all. It was truly peaceful. Colorful. Beautiful. And I enjoyed every step I took.
I have learned to like Duluth, but I will always love home.
With Peace & Love,
Stephanie
