Stampedes along Spanish Banks

A great advantage to being on leave is that I get to enjoy the public parks and pathways during the day when most people are at work. Generally, there is ample space for a runner, dog and stroller. Not so on Sunday morning. It appeared that every runner in Vancouver chose the path along Jericho Beach to Spanish banks as their route to log some miles. It may have been the gorgeous sun that brought everyone out to the beach or it may have been the unfortunate closure of the Pacific Spirit park trails. Stampedes of runners - mostly in groups - made it that much more challenging to maneuver Otis and Ellie. Regardless, I was happy to be running, moving and feeling the wind at my face. Every day, some tragic news article reinforces the fragility of life - I think I have to stop reading the news. Every stride...every breath is truly a gift.