The Fire Won

I had every intention of running today.  I really did.  Portland has been blessed with sunnier than usual skies this February (the month usually only gets 2 sunny days!).  After nearly a week of sunshine this month we knew our deal with the devil here had to end sooner or later right?  Just check the 10 day forecast for Portland – see any sun in the next 10 days?  Nope.  Not likely!

There is something about 40 degrees and rain that just makes me feel miserable down to the core.  Am I wimp?  Perhaps.  I’d really rather have 25 and sunny than 40 and wet.  Even after a 40 degree rainy run I feel miserable.  Runner’s high?  Nah.

On my way home I snapped this picture as I shivered in my car waiting for the heat to kick in.  I could help but think of all the firewood we still have and how a cozy fire seemed much more inviting than a soggy run.

The fire won.

Now I’m warm and cozy but not running.  Ahhh.. Portland…  I know a large part of our happiness in any given situation is how we choose to respond to it.  And don’t get me wrong – I am mostly happy and many things in life are just plain awesome for me.  I just can’t seem to get past the whole running in the cold rain (and on the road) really sucks attitude.  It’s got the best of me for sure after 2 winters here in Stump Town.  My boss and I were talking today about how all the best beer is made in places that have crappy weather.  Portland?  Microbrew capital of the world.  Los Angeles?  Nary a microbrewery to be seen in a city that is bazillion times larger.  You have to cope with those dreary days somehow right?  Pick a place with lots of breweries and I’ll show you crappy weather.  Pick a place with great weather and you are unlikely to find lots of breweries.  I think it’s just a natural part of the universe.

Well… I gotta go.  The fire is warm and a beer is calling my name.

Happy Running & Dirty Feet,
Jessica