See the Foxes

Running opens up new experiences to most of us who are open to whatever may come. For me, this summer of marathon training has yielded a great harvest. Not only have I discovered what my body and mind and will are capable of, I've explored new parts of the Twin Cities and experienced nature in a wonderful and different way.

I love living in the Twin Cities. Usually my reasons have focused on the amazing availability of the arts and the standard of living that I enjoy. But the longer I live here, the more I've come to appreciate the great outdoors. Running has enhanced that appreciation for me.

I've explored the Lakes in Minneapolis in a more complete way, tackled White Bear Lake and discovered Woodlake Nature Center and trail running. Training for a marathon has meant that I'm outdoors much more than usual - so I'm seeing much more: birds from spring through fall, the budding and turning of trees, and wildlife. Last week, I had a run-in with nature that I won't soon forget.

I was running a 7.5 to 8 mile run through Woodlake when a little red fox trotted out of the woods and into my path, oblivious to my presence. Once it heard me and turned his small head over his shoulder to see me there and trotting along after him, he skitted along the trail and around the corner. I was stunned and pleasantly surprised by the encounter and couldn't wait to tell my nature-loving daughter. Then, as I rounded the next curve in the trail - there it was again! Stunned again, he scampered off - this time off the trail and back into the woods.

I wouldn't have seen the fox if it wasn't for my running. So whether you are a runner or not, take the time to notice the world around you and appreciate it. Start seeing the foxes.