This last week running became a joy again. Don't get me wrong, I have always loved running and always will. But it's been a tough battle these last few months, actually more like a year. The pregnancy was harder on me then I let anyone know. I was so sick during it that many days it was a battle just to stay afloat and not be consumed by depression. Running, my normal outlet, became a chore. It made me feel sicker afterwards instead of better. It became harder and harder to do as the weight came on and my joints loosened. It was too much. I stopped any serious running after I
completed my 1/2 marathon around 5 months.
Post pregnancy has been a challenge too. I had to wait until three months before I could start because of
my delivery. I've now been running again for a month. It's hard. My lungs burn, my legs throb and I am so out of breath I just want to stop and walk. My pace is so slow I feel I could walk faster. Many days I wonder will I enjoy this again...
There was something about the run the other day that just made me beam from ear to ear. I felt like my old self again, pre baby, pre pregnancy, pre injuries, pre dogs. Just me and my running shoes. It was cold and dark outside. The type of day most would have stayed on the couch. Something inside me wanted to get out. Freedom from it all, all the the responsibilities we take on. It had just finished raining so a wet coolness was in the air. I ran with ease. My shoes pounding against the pavement. My eyes glistening in the light of the moon. My heart beating with joy. No burning lungs or throbbing legs. Just me and my joy of running. It felt so wonderful. Thanks God for allowing me the ability to run and find your joy in it, in this hectic world.
This last week running became a joy again. Don't get me wrong, I have always loved running and always will. But it's been a tough battle these last few months, actually more like a year. The pregnancy was harder on me then I let anyone know. I was so sick during it that many days it was a battle just to stay afloat and not be consumed by depression. Running, my normal outlet, became a chore. It made me feel sicker afterwards instead of better. It became harder and harder to do as the weight came on and my joints loosened. It was too much. I stopped any serious running after I completed my 1/2 marathon around 5 months.
Thanksgiving morning we did a 2 mile walk with Cyndie, Miles & the dogs. Then a "Beaty" tradition, a 5 mile fun run. However this time we had the dogs in tow as it was a small town race. Being my usual self, I got frustrated how easy it was for Geoff, while I had to work so hard. So I ran so hard that I thought I was going to puke. The sad thing is I didn't even break an 8 minute mile. But all said, not too bad for just being pregnant 4 months ago. Next time I'm taking it easy...
Thanksgiving evening sunset in the backyard. It was so beautiful I ran outside and took a picture.
