Physical Exertion

It is not a surprise to anyone here that I run as a form of exercise.  A rough estimate that I think is pretty accurate is that I have been running now for closing in on ~12 years.  

I ran initially to see if I COULD do so.  When I was a kid, and rather chunky, I never ran..... because as a kid, I had a fear of failure and a fear of being ridiculed by the "cool" athletic kids.  I did, also, however, greatly ADMIRE folks who DID run.  I was also in AWE of an adult who I knew who ran, and admired his strength and determination to do so.  I always was in awe of folks who could run.  But, I never gave it much thought for me, as I believed it to be impossible.  Even when I lost the massive amount of weight I forced myself to lose (~135 pounds) to reach dead-center BMI, I never even considered running for several years.  

But, when I found I actually did have enough stamina, and enough gumption, and enough stubbornness to be able to run..... I found the IMPORTANT REASON for me to run, was primarily to reduce feelings of stress, day-to-day.   The other effects are mostly what I consider fringe benefits..... bonuses.  

I am eager to go to the Retiree's Cigar Group later today.  I hope it is as enjoyable as I am envisioning.

PipeTobacco