I often wonder what other runners think about while they run. Ruminating while running is a common occurrence for me.  Lots of times, as I get into the cadence of running, my mind also gets into the rhythm of providing creative ideas.

I run with my husband, Don, and because we both keep a slightly different pace, the longer the run, the more time I spend training alone.  Most runners these days use IPods to keep their mind occupied.  My playlist usually helps, in my case, it helps keep my mind from concentrating on something other than the pain I feel or how tired I am by the distance.

On race day, because of our pace differences, even though I run surrounded by others, I’m always in my own world.  It is inspiring when someone passes by and tells me “good job” or “keep it up, you’re doing great,” especially when I’m trailing behind the average runner.  And although inspiring, most runner’s pet peeve is the dreaded “you are almost there!” or “you are half way there!” especially when one is struggling to put one foot in front of the other.

This is when inspiration sets in for me!  Sometimes, I wish I could stop to write what floods through my mind, however I have to keep in mind the task at hand.  My priority is to complete the training or, most important, finish the race.  Once past the finish line, I can worry about putting pen to paper and jot down the ideas that visited along the way.

Back in February during a 15-mile training run, while listening to my IPod, a song came up that stirred memories from the past.  Lucky for me, I was able to remember the poem that came to me during the run.  “The Best of Times” is the product of that run.

To complete the journey for this poem, later on, I was able to find a picture taken during a visit to my hometown.  I believe that my memory of our walking that trail says it all!  And it is also another example of “The Best of Times” shared not only with family, but especially with friends!