Dear Elliptical,

As I think of you sitting there on the back porch, I remember all the good times we've shared. These past few months have been great and I feel bad for what I'm about to say.

I went running outside tonight. It was just so nice out when I came home from work, I couldn't help myself. Thanks to the time change, the sun was still out and the temperature was just right. I just had to put on my running tights, grab my iPod and go for it.

I know we've become close these past few months. The cold weather made me turn to you for my daily workout. When I first started the routine, I could barely stand working out for 15 minutes, you were tough. Then after Christmas, the old kitchen television moved out to the back porch and things just clicked. For the past few months, I've spent at least 5 nights a week with you. A quick 30 minutes on "Weight Loss Setting # 2" while I watched a rerun of "How I Met Your Mother." Really, its been great but tonight just reminded me that I need more.

Sure, there was still water on the sidewalks and the occasional muddy patch, but I think we both knew that I would go back to outdoor running. Its just so much more exciting. I can play it safe with a quick jog around the neighborhood or I can go off the beaten path ... down a wooded trail, or even to the beach! With you, we just stay inside all the time. If I brought you outside, you would rust. Face it, we both knew this couldn't last forever.

You may think I'm making a bad decision but running and I go way back. We have a history together. Sure, I have suffered from sore joints and shin splints, but that's in the past and I'm much stronger now. My endurance and stamina are way up and I'd like to think that's because of you.

I hope you'll remember all the time we've shared. Its been special for me and I won't forget it. See you again in December?

All the best,

Carolyn