A Christmas Run

As I've said many times before, I really love running on holidays. Despite going to bed so late on Christmas Eve, I was up for an 8am run today. A cold front blew in overnight, and I had the fresh chill of the morning, the sun, and various wildlife as my companions.

Finally.

Last year, I encountered a deer not five feet from me before I even left my parents' street; I hoped to spot some today, too. Sure enough, just as I was leaving their street, I crossed paths with half-a-dozen deer.

There were three near the turn to exit their street (in the background by the sign) and three right along the preserve as I came round the bend.

I stopped for pictures; I should have taken them as I walked past, but I didn't want to spook them. Seeing them really set the tone for this run. There is just something magical about seeing these calm, peaceful, silent creatures in the early light of day, when no one else is around and the chill is biting into your skin.

It takes my breath away.

I walked by them, giving them a wide berth, and they disappeared just as calmly into the preserve.

Standing on a bench near a viewing station, this is the view of the marshes in the distance.

My parents' community is home to quite a few mini nature preserves. While I didn't see the gator on this run - although I looked! - I did stop to take some photos of one such preserve, a few anhingas, and the view itself.

An anhinga suns itself in the trees.

An anhinga and a few herons near the water's edge.

I just did a very easy four miles. My legs felt really lethargic. It seems like this is going to have to be an easy recovery week after pushing myself this weekend.

I came back from the run refreshed and ready to spend the day with family. Matt's mom graciously bought me a ton of new workout clothes for Christmas, but I need to exchange some sizes, so the review of those will have to come later. The most exciting fitness-related gift at his dad's was this:

I can't wait to begin using it!

Now, the daunting task of reviewing the year awaits. I'm really excited to look back, but that means 2013 is officially coming to an end. How is that even possible?!

I hope Christmas was good to you all this year!

Did you have a good Christmas?
Did you run today?

ABK