schlitz audubon - my nearby nature escape

Not much makes me feel more calm and happy than spending some quality time outdoors. I've been fortunate to have traveled to far off places - from secluded tropical beaches to awe inspiring mountain tops. But to have a destination that's a nearby nature escape, makes me feel truly grateful. And for me, this place is Schlitz Audubon Nature Center. It's not but five minutes from my home, so I can get there in no time flat. Whether I'm there for a little outing with my son or there for a run, I always feel a calmness transcend. 

Here are a few photos I snapped while at Schlitz for a run this morning. Regardless of the season, there is always beauty to be found!

Lake Michigan 

I love running on this path -
what a beautiful view!

Top of the tower vista

running - restoration in progress

Although it was drizzling and the temperature was cool, my run this morning was wonderful. I should preface this by noting that I just started running about a month ago, after get this - a 15 year hiatus! There were lots of reasons why I stopped running, but there are even more reasons why I started again. I'm not fast, and I try not to even think about my mile time. Instead, I think about my surroundings and the changing of the seasons that has happened right before my eyes, and find that these thoughts have been incredibly helpful in clearing my mind. Today I ran just about 6 miles, which for someone who never saw herself running "for fun" again is pretty amazing. Here are a few photos I snapped while out on my run this morning. 

how I feel when I run

a mighty oak - I love this tree

post-run and oh so happy!