Coutesy and Poo on the Shoo

First let's talk about courtesy. How many of you do activities outdoors? And, do you pass others who are enjoying their outdoor activities? I LOVE running on the running path about a 1/4 mile away from my house. I pass many other runners, bikers, walkers, and day jont-ers. I do my best to give a little smile and wave at those I pass. I figure they are out there enjoying themselves and working hard and a little encouragement can always go a long way. Well, I've had a tremendous variety of reactions. Some people smile and wave, some people look away, some just ignore. I've actually had a couple of people roll their eyes and mumble under their breath. I assume they were mumbling toward me since they were looking right at me. Not sure if what I was wearing offended them, or just me being in their way. I've even had one guy turn around and tell me (after I took out my head phones) he loved my tattoo.
Out of all the reactions I have received while running, there is one that sticks out in my mind; I had just started jogging/walking, and it was obvious that I was struggling. I passed a woman who had obviously been running for some time. I gave a small smile and small wave. She responded with a HUGE smile and a resounding, "You're doing amazing!!!" I'm not sure how she knew it, but that was the encouragement that I needed. It helped me finish my jog, and it still helps motivate me to this day. So now every time I pass people on the path I do my best to give them a genuine smile and a little encouragement.

As for Poo on the Shoo; During my run today, I almost stepped in a HUGE pile of doggie poo. I noticed it at the last second and was able to stubble around it. But there was one person that wasn't so lucky. That unlucky poo covered sole had laid a messy, squishy path quite a ways down the path. I had to wonder to myself, "Was it one of those who rolled their eyes at me?"

Oh, and here's a little give-a-way at: Forward Foot Strides, Ends today so get entered!!!!