I have come to the conclusion that it is time to jump into the blogging world and let the business evolve around. Yes, this blog will mostly be about running and related matters, but non-runners can hopefully enjoy and learn from it too, especially the food posts.
I left the corporate hi-tech world almost a year ago and have found myself running, yoga-ing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, gardening, and being way more active outdoors than in the past. I’ve called it a sabbatical after working full time for most of my adult life, and that includes raising two children. I needed a break to regroup and get in touch with who I am. And you know what? I’ve loved it. I’m more myself. I’m calmer. I’m more in tuned with my body and my world. I’m more grateful for what I have. So now, I believe, it is time to take all of this and translate it into a business that I can live with and share with others.
I plan to offer running tours, initially in Nanaimo on and around the great trails and sites in our beautiful coastal city and then ultimately to different locations on Vancouver Island and the world. Yes, the world!
I want to run in Paris again and revisit all the great sites. I want to run in Japan and visit the gardens and temples. Then there is also New York, Hawaii, San Francisco, Italy, Barcelona, Edinburgh, Tasmania… The list goes on and on.
Although the business starts with running, it does not end there. I love learning and sharing about where I run. I love food. (I run to eat, don’t you?) I love restaurants and coffee shops. I love shopping and poking into museums and art galleries. I love yoga. And I want to share all of this with others. All of that will come into the business. Just you wait and see!
Before the business begins in earnest there are a few details to work out, so I’ll start with the blog and progress with the business as things fall into place. I welcome your feedback.
Some acknowledgements:
- Logo by Fiona Hawkes
- Site name by Alison Watt
- Thank you to oh so many friends who have offered ideas and encouragement!
I am a runner.
Way to go Denise! Fun to see you tapping into the Conferences in Nanaimo! How about a running workshop in Tofino?
Thanks Trudy, I’m hoping that conference goes and/or their spouses or partners will be interested in this service. In fact, just last week I took two conference going spouses on a lovely tour of the Nanaimo Old Quarter and into Bowen Park, where we saw an abundance of mushrooms. It was totally fun and included some shopping and lunch at a local landmark. (Perhaps I’ll write up that tour.)
Yay! I get to be the first to comment on this exciting new venture — it pays to be an early bird!
Congratulations on taking the first step, Denise, although really I guess you’ve run a few million already. . . .I’m looking forward to seeing where this path takes you.
Thanks, Frances! I suppose I should offer a prize for being the first to comment. How about we run together sometime, somewhere where we could end at a coffee shop and I’ll buy.