I read the book, "Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less" by Greg McKeown this past weekend.  It is more of a business book, but really got me thinking about life in general.  He talks about how we often get caught up in doing so many things, we aren't really effective at any of them.  

He also talked about the importance of play.  

Yes, you read that right.  Play.  All work and no play is actually not good for us.

I was thinking of this today as I spent a majority of my day on the Barr trail at the top of Pikes Peak.  I drove to the top, jogged down three miles to tree line and then power hiked back up.  At the same time, my husband CJ ran from Memorial Park and met me at the top of Pikes Peak 13 miles later.

It was a gorgeous morning to be on the mountain.  

And it was my first time getting any type of training "above tree line."  As I am signed up to run the Ascent in August, I know that I need to start training now.  One of the common things I hear Ascent veterans say is how important it is to get altitude training above tree line.  This builds red blood cells and prepare your body for the hardest part of the race.

Therefore, I am glad I was able to get that benefit today.  

But, most importantly, I was thankful for some "play" time on this playground today....

A beautiful view from the parking lot at the top of Pikes Peak before I started.

Ahhhhh......

Proof I DID get to tree line :)

My head was in the clouds...literally!

As I was finishing, some afternoon clouds started rolling in.  

Oh...and after my workout I decided to indulge in one of their famous altitude donuts...especially since it was free!

I encourage you to find some time this week to get out and play!!  God's beautiful playground awaits you. :)