Running and Landscaping

Today was a humid day. But I got in 3 miles even when at times I thought about slowing down and taking a break under the nearest shade tree. I stayed with it. I thought I'd try to survey all the neighbors' landscaping. Actually, I think I was really on the look out for a sprinkler. But there wasn't any in sight. I pushed through the heat and humidity without any sprinkler comfort.

The landscaping kept me preoccupied. About 2 1/2 miles into my run, I passed by this one man's house who has been creating some beautiful gardens, pathways, and one huge red brick patio. I have seen him out in his yard, working very hard on many of my runs for about the past month. Each time I pass by, he has made more progress. I even manage to tell him as I run by that I think his yard is looking "just great!" He gives me a smile and I run on by knowing he was happy to have someone notice.

Today, once again, he was out working away, and I finally found out the motivation for all his hard work. As I ran by, I encouraged his hard work and said he must be planning for a big July 4th party. He just smiled and said, "No, this isn't for the 4th. My daughter's getting married and we're having the reception in the backyard." Ah, I thought, that is why he has been working so hard.

The man worked hard. For quite some time. In the heat. And in the humidity. I never saw anyone else helping him. And his yard looked beautiful! They will have a lovely reception.

Hard work pays off. Whether it's running or landscaping, working hard through the elements of heat and humidity, day after day, or every other day in my case, it will pay off. I hope to see my diligence come out in the 5K race I signed up for yesterday. I don't know if the course will be hilly or not. I'd love to break my 27:16 time. I guess we'll see.

I plan on running on Saturday, then taking it easy til race day, July 4th.