Monday, 29 December 2014

Frozen Beauty

This time last year I couldn't run for a bus. The idea of stepping out in sub-zero temperatures - to exercise! - was an alien concept. If you follow this blog frequently you'll know that things for me in this regard have changed quite a bit. 

Today felt like a reminder of what I enjoy most about getting out running. Nature in all her glory. And a ok a bit cold but you soon get over that. I enjoyed every step x 

36 comments:

CJ said...

I'm always inspired by people who take up running. It's something I'd love to do one day. Maybe 2015 will be the year that I do it. I could definitely do with the extra energy! CJ xx

Curlew Country said...

Thanks CJ. No-one is more surprised than me that it it doable. My advice is find a good podcast, don't try to hard and hold onto fact that just getting out is positive. Feel the air, hear the birds, look to the horizon. That's enough - good luck :)

Sherri said...

I enjoyed looking at your lovely winter photos. Such a nice change from our sweltering weather in Queensland.

VeggieMummy said...

I could never get the hang of running - my husband runs and I've tried it in the past, but I'm more of a swimmer myself. I have to admit that the scenery isn't as good just ploughing up and down a pool though! Best wishes for 2015. x

Alison said...

Watch out if it's icy, Steph! But yes, getting out and feeling the cold air in your lungs is brilliant xx

Anonymous said...

Looks wonderful! Hope you have many more crisp brisk runs. Bracing eh?!

Frances said...

Steph, bravo to you on the running, and many thanks for sharing your beautiful, frosty photographs with us. The scenery in your area is spectacular throughout the year!

Walking is my preference for outdoor exercise, whether it is on city sidewalks or wandering along Central Park's beautiful paths. There is so much to see, artificial attractions on the city sidewalks, and lovely nature in the Park.

A very Happy New Year to you and yours. xo

Amanda said...

I read recently people hate it at first but something takes over and the feelings you have. Very inspiring x

Unknown said...

Just to drop in and say how much I enjoy your blog (have I said that before? I get a bit befuddled this time of year!). Good luck with the running and Happy New Year : ) Jen

Kim said...

What wonderful photos. Good luck with the running!

carrie@northwoods scrapbook said...

Your blog and photos are just lovely! It's been freezing and frosty where I live in the States as well.

Thanks for sharing and stay warm!
xo

Louise said...

The berry photos are so beautiful! Well done on the running too - something I'd never even consider, let alone get out there and do!

just Gai said...

I'm sure the views over your amazing countryside offer greater inspiration than our rows of semis, but that's not a good enough excuse for my failure to continue running after having made such a promising start two years ago. Well done for persisting.

Curlew Country said...

Thanks Sherri - I'd be hopeless in the heat! Happy New Year x

Curlew Country said...

Oh it definitely is what gets me out. Couldn't run on a machine. I often run along the canal as the wildlife is great (I saw a kingfisher once right by a factory on the village industrial estate) maybe that's an option for you - all the best! Happy New Year x

Curlew Country said...

Thanks Carrie, turning to rain & wind here now- have a Happy New Year. Xx

Curlew Country said...

No one is more shocked than me on the running :) berries are on the tow path by the flint mill. They get better every year. Happy New Year xx

Curlew Country said...

I'm so glad you enjoy the photos Frances - I've very much appreciated your lyrical comments all year so thank you so much. One day I hope I get to walk in Central Park :) I love to walk as well and tomorrow we'll mark New Year walking over the Peak District with friends and a tribe of kids. I just find it odd walking alone so running is super In that respect. All best wishes for 2015 xx

Curlew Country said...

Oh Jennifer that's really kind, thanks so much. Have a super 2015 xx

Curlew Country said...

I used to swim lots too but I'm quite lazy and I put myself off easily with the hassle of getting my kit ready, driving to the pool etc. I find running much easier to cope with and you're right the scenery is a real inspiration. Have a very happy new year xx

Curlew Country said...

Certainly felt like that initially, I couldn't imagine running for 5 mi tues but can do 50 these days! I never believed in that energy buzz thing, not sure i do now, but it makes me feel much better all day if I've been for just a short run.

Happy New Year xx

Curlew Country said...

Thanks Alison I do - I've got trail running shoes and they're really great. You're so right once you warm up its fantastic! Happy new year xx

Curlew Country said...

Cor - and then some!! Brill though. Have a smashing new year. Xx

Curlew Country said...

Thanks Kim, that's really kind. Wishing you a very happy new year! Xx

driftwood said...

happy new year Steph, may it be filled with lots of running x

Sara said...

OH! I used to follow your block way back when, before my daughter came along & my world turned upside down. Certainly before this running business ;)
How nice to find you now and hear you've acheived an aspiration I've always half thought was beyond my reach. You've inspired me to dig through your archive and read more.
Meanwhile, it's lovely to find you again, & I look forward to following you in 2015 x

Unknown said...

Hi, I have read your blog for a while but never commented but I intend to indulge in my love of blogs this year to replace time wasted on fb last year. This is much more fulfilling. I love you photos and your enthusiasm for running!I used to run but am a bit decrepit now with joint pain, so my resolve is to start a new activity that will keep me revitalized in 2015.

SandyshoesCornwall said...

I've been trying to follow your lead off and on, initially I found 3 minutes nearly impossible but have managed a 20 minute jog with a friend (10 mins each way with a rest). It was difficult but so much easier when you don't want to give up on the other person!

We also knew it would be more fun to be surrounded by beautiful scenery so followed a trail through Penrose Estate in Cornwall. It helped to be focusing on the lake and trees when we were flagging. I'm hoping to keep it up, so glad you have. Happy New Year, Antonia x

Curlew Country said...

Thanks so much and Happy New Year to you too xxx

Curlew Country said...

Lovely to welcome you back :) honestly it's not been nearly as hard as I was terrified it cou, be :) good luck xx

Curlew Country said...

Thanks Sara for popping by to say hi - it's really appreciated xx hope you have a refreshing and reviving year xx

Curlew Country said...

Go go Antonia :) !! I found that to be exactly at the same at the start. 3 minutes feels astronomical doesn't it so to get to 20 is fantastic. "Creep and go" as my mum says. Scenery is definitely a benefit I think, almost becomes the point of doing it.

Good on you for doing it with a friend too. I find that harder - can't talk and run at the same time. Well done and keep up the great work :) xx

Sarah said...

Well done on the running - I'm more of a walker but would love to be more active so am starting with a pedometer.
Your photos are beautiful and I love the light in the picture of the canal.
Sarah.

Leanne said...

Bravo with the running Steph. I have kept up with my swimming, and am now at the 100 length mark. Without stopping!! It's a great feeling. Your photographs are enchanting.
Leanne xxx

Irene said...

Hello Sarah

I've just discovered your blog and see you are a runner, I too enjoy running. Your photos are wonderful
and agree Nature is beautiful.

luv
irene
xxxx

Unknown said...

I have only recently come across your blog. I love your stunning photos of your outdoor adventures and looking forward to reading more in the days ahead. I have just started my own blog - I hope you don't mind but I have listed your blog on the blogs I read. If you would like to read my blog you will find it at jan-ramblings.blogspot.co.uk