Rockaway Running

I went running a few times while I was on vacation in Montauk this summer, and I have never felt so much love from other runners. All along the road, runners passing the other way would give a "keep it up," a wave, a thumbs up. I loved it! Back in real life in Rockaway, though, runs are not quite as friendly.  Once in a while I’ll get a smile, but in general the other runners are very thin, very blonde girls who are super focused and running hard. So today I was surprised when a girl ran right up to me, tapped me on the arm, and what did she have to tell me? “There’s a weird man in the bushes about five blocks up.” Much more helpful, actually, than the cheerleading. Thanks for looking out, Rockaway runner!

Things I love today

Sequins worn in the daytime
Beach volleyball
Running playlists made up entirely of cheesy pop music
Gold medal tears
Bouncy ponytails

Things I love today

People who say “bless you” when strangers sneeze
Sunny days
Rainbow sprinkles
Kids who speak two languages and use them interchangeably
Real Housewives reunions

Some things I'm thankful for today

Pineapples
Slow sailboats
The randomness of my ipod on shuffle
People who have found a job that’s the absolute right fit for them
Brightly colored beach umbrella
Patriotic sing-along songs

Some things I'm thankful for today

Vacation days
Babies wearing sunbonnets
Inky pens
"Pleases" and "thank yous"
A sea breeze on a broiling day
Beach bags and sandy toes

Some things I'm thankful for today...

• My dad, and his dedication to family traditions
• Running on the beach
• Pine nuts
• Diet Sprite
• “Starships” by Nicki Minaj
• Bocce ball tournaments with kooky cousins
• Black and white ice cream sodas