A Day’s Yin & Yang

Spending an October weekday at a California beach is pure soul food.

A morning run on the boardwalk by myself (literally – didn’t see another person for the better part of it) provided me an hour with a wave-crashing soundtrack and my thoughts. I put one foot in front of the other and took deep breaths.

Halfway through, I saw this tree.

It reminded me of the Baobabs in Senegal.

Senegal made think of my sweet friend Peg.

Thinking of Peg, a master of going the extra mile to make a moment magic, made me run toward the tree for a closer look.

At the tree I saw the tide was out and the beach was perfect for running. *I had missed this opportunity completely because the night before, at high tide, the deep, soft sand convinced me my morning run would have to be on the boardwalk. All barney. No kahuna.

Now on perfectly packed sand, I watched the waves while my calves lit up a few degrees warmer.

I ran toward the Balboa Pier, marked by Ruby’s Diner.

Ruby’s Diner is packed with sweet memories, stretching from my childhood to my own children.

Outside Ruby’s Diner – 10/10/12

The memory reel played. The waves crashed. I ran.

Allowing my mind to wander felt good. Letting my feet follow was added adventure.

In sweet balance, later in the day I allowed mind and body to rest. It looked something like this. Simple. Real. Peaceful.

I will forever be grateful for this day’s yin and yang.

Sunset – 10/10/12