What’s the most fun way to exercise?

Outside the city’s hype and melancholy,

in green pastures where the roe deer stare,

then turn and jump, effortlessly,

clearing the fence meant to contain them.

If they could smile they would,

their little white hairy powder puffs

they wiggle in delight. Free.

This is where walking or running,

breathing in the purest air,

pumps blood until the face glows

and the mind finds peace.

My first marathon

seemed possible here

amongst the hares and the pheasants

trained by my husband

who simply said you can do it.

Cherished memories now of

mornings running in the hills

in snow, rain or sunshine

Tinto, Coulter Fell and the Pentlands.

Even our dog Cara in shock

lying between us the rest of the day

grinning.

Nature is that empowering

More than a gym measuring every curve

deadening every nerve.

Christ taught us that we are an animated body.

Designed to be in tandem, mind, body, and spirit,

fully alive, robust and enjoying God’s creation.