The best compliment

I went for a run. When I came home, my daughter was waiting on the sidewalk with Aaron in front of our house. As I ran towards them, her smile grew wide, and she started to bounce. I noticed her mismatched outfit.  I gave her a big hug, and she said, "I put on my leggings so I could go running with you!" Aaron said that she had been waiting for me with great anticipation of running around the block with me. I invited her to go for a run, and we set out around the block.

It is important for children to see their parents doing things they love!

I was pleased that she wanted to join me because that means she thought it was something we could also enjoy together. Therefore, I gave the right impression. Aaron does not like to run. Not at all. However, running is fun for me. It may be a good form of exercise, but the reason I do it is because I love it. It is a stress reliever and a joy. It feels good to set a goal and accomplish it. It feels good to train for a race and succeed in finishing. It feels good to sweat and know that with each step I am growing stronger.

To see her choosing to run with me for pure enjoyment was the best compliment. 

I don't always remember the importance of setting aside personal time for fun. Sometimes it is hard to grant myself the time. I need to make sure to do so regularly in a way that my family can see. As a parent I want my child to watch me loving life.

Running around the block