I brought Carlos to school this morning. For this first week of school the half-day preschoolers are only attending from 9 to 11 a.m. I took Carlos up to his classroom and then I headed out to the reservoir for a 6 mile training run. The sun was shining, a light breeze blowing and there was a hint of crispness signaling a change of season just around the corner, but for today I would enjoy these last moments of summer.

I took my normal route around the reservoir. I started out at a comfortable pace letting the music guide me. My legs felt light and my breathing was even. There was a smile on my face. I waved or mouthed good morning to everyone I passed.

I returned to the car for water after finishing four miles. I rested for a few minutes then took off again. It seemed as though everything was in sync on this run. My breathing became rhythmic and effortless. My legs felt like they could run forever. I picked up the pace and the smile on my face grew instantly bigger. I meant it too. I was truly happy to be running.

• Running