Drenched with happiness

EDITOR,
“Drenched with happiness after running intervals in the rain with Julia”. That was my husband’s Facebook status last Saturday after an exhilarating run in the woods. Thoroughly soaked and physically worked, we giddily welcomed the first storm of the season. I was perfectly content savoring the experience between the two of us, however, and had trouble understanding why he felt the need to share it on Facebook. He argued that while most people are bundled up in their homes during the stormy weather, we went out and had an incredible adventure. He believed that sharing it with others would inspire them to get out there too.
Running through the forest in the rain is about so much more than just exercise. It is a time when you see the forest come alive. Parched from the dryness throughout the summer months, the towering redwoods, meandering rivers and delicate ferns welcome each fallen drop. Surrounded by such wonderment, I feel happy and grounded. These moments, without the distractions of phones, emails, or anybody asking anything of me, are truly divine. With my heart pounding, muscles contracting and everything working in perfect synchronicity to move me forward, I am filled with gratitude. When I crest the top of a steep climb, I find that suddenly my perspective shifts, and life’s challenges seem to shrink to manageable proportions. I always return home after a good trail run feeling alive and cleansed.
Some of my favorite parks to explore include Big Basin, Castle Rock, Henry Cowell, and Nisene Marks. As you might have guessed, I will be voting YES on Proposition 21.
Whether you are a runner, hiker or walker, don’t let the winter weather prevent you from getting outdoors and staying active. Sure, you will probably get wet, but you also might find yourself drenched with happiness.
Julia Blanton, Scotts Valley