holy wind.

Oh my heavens. I just got back from one of the most ridiculous runs of my life. Maybe I'm being dramatic, but running into a 30 mph headwind isn't exactly my idea of a fun run. Amidst the wind, I was dodging tumble weeds and trying to run with my mouth closed so the dust wouldn't coat my teeth. Yummy. What I set out to be an 8+-miler ended up being barely 6. Booooo. Regardless, I'm still sitting here watching Neb play the Wolverines (currently losing . . . wake UP Huskers!!) and drinking my delicious banana chocolate protein smoothie to help my muscles recover. Mmm.

It's amazing the funny looks people give runners. It's this "ohhh myyy gaaaad!" and "what the devil does she think she's doing over there?" and "I secretly hope she falls on her face because it will make me feel better about sitting on my porch and watching her run by" kind of look. Lots and lots of rubber necks. I think anyone who runs understands what I mean. Either that, or it's the fact that I live in near-West Texas and the concept of exercise is hard-pressed for the majority of the inhabitants.

This is basically what I see when I'm out in New West Texico. This, tumble weeds and pickups. For the record, I'm not complaining. I love living in new places and figuring out all the quirks.

Confession: I have this undying urge to high five any other runner, walker or biker that I see when I'm out doing my thing. I just get really excited when I come across other outdoor/exercise enthusiasts and want to be both encouraging and, naturally, the best of friends (because friendships start with high fives?). Plus, how awesome are high fives from a really happy stranger? Not sure what anyone else thinks, but I love them! The only deterrant is that a lot of people won't look you in the eye or even, much to my disdain, will cross the street if they see someone coming their direction in order to avoid any social contact. That's just awkward, people. And unnecessary. I think I'll make it a new goal to give out high fives during my next run. Just because I can.