Gratitude.

Today's Take it and Run Thursday theme is BYFB . . . Bring Your Favorite Blogs. Since it is Runners' Lounge, the focus is on running blogs. Not dim-witted celebrities making dim-witted fashion choices. Although, I do like to read blogs about that.

Anyway . . . back to the running blogs.

Here's the thing with me and the blogs. Like other Running Bloggers, I love running blogs. My Google Reader is full of them and I cannot wait for updates. I am Seriously Addicted. And I think this is wonderful.

See, I'm a solo runner. At various times in my life, I've tried to run with others but it just doesn't work for me. I like to run alone. But while that is true, I also like to read about running and gain insight from other runners. I need to learn and to improve.

Since I found running blogs, my running has changed for the better. I've learned a lot from other runners and picked up many tips that have improved my running experience. There is a wonderful feeling of camaraderie in this virtual running community and that feeling has buoyed me on many occasions. I've been so inspired by many runners' journeys -- from those who have recently started running to those who are accomplishing amazing feats and successfully reaching their goals. Some bloggers keep me laughing and some keep me challenged. Others keep me connected. All of them (and there are more than I can mention here) help me be a better runner.

I'm forever grateful for the ability to run, because it is something I love to do. Now, though, I'm almost as grateful for all the running blogs that I've come across. Don't stop blogging, Running Bloggers! I'd be lost without you.