Always Take Running Shoes

I went camping at Pine Valley this past weekend. I have never been camping there before, but have gone for the day more times than I can count. It has been a few years since I have been there and much has changed. The most amazing trail is hidden among the forest trees, follows the river and goes around the lake. I longed for my running shoes all weekend. I imagined me, the trail, the river, and the trees becoming one and blocking everything else out. I imagined what running music I would choose (I can't stand listening to myself breathe) and decided it would be different from my norm. I would listen to David Lanz and Man from Snowy River. I was really happy we took our bikes because at least I could ride the trail on my bike. Not near as amazing as running the trail, but it did for the time being. Now, I am trying to plan when I can go and just run the trail. Life gets really busy this week and I do not know when it will slow, but I will go run the trail before I run the Saints and Sinners Half. I will NEVER go anywhere without my running shoes again.One never knows when the perfect run might present itself =)

The Starting Gate

I love running and decided it must be the closest thing to experiencing what a horse feels when they are released from the starting gate. All day they know the race is coming and then they make it to the starting gate only to be released into the unknown of the race. This is how I feel. Whether my run is first thing in the morning or after all the children are in bed, I know its coming and I live for it. Then I hit the open road not knowing what the run has in store for me. Sometimes the run is hard, and for some reason my body does not cooperate. Most days my runs are amazing. I am running from time, hoping to beat the clock if only by a second. Sometimes a run is so absolutely amazing I cannot hide the smile from my face as I climb hills. I have been thinking about the horse analogy a lot lately. Especially since I'll Have Another was the first hopeful in 34 years of winning the triple crown only to have it stolen from him due to a swollen tendon. I have always had a love for horses and I can only imagine how sad this horse is having to retire from the racing circuit for the time. I hope he is able to recover and make it back to the winners circle. For now, I dedicate my running to him.

Losing Weight After Baby

I had to quit running for awhile because I was very unexpectedly pregnant. I am not allowed to exercise during my pregnancies so needless to say it was a LONG 10 months. The second I received the go ahead to run I was out on the road. Oh how painful it was! I can't believe how the body digresses so quickly. I was expecting to be able to run at least 3 miles with minimal problem. I only made it two and thought I was going to die. My mind was saying we can and my body was 100% disagreeing. I easily lost all but 10 lbs of the baby weight. Problem is 10 lbs. is a big deal when you want to fit into your pants. I am trying to run more, but lack of sleep with a new baby and working full-time is not easy. I have discovered that the body really does not need a lot of food when you are not exercising like a crazy person. I have seriously limited my calories and of course add more on the days I am able to hit the pavement. Chocolate has become a distant friend. I don't allow myself to eat it, and I must say I am surprised at the willpower I have. Hopefully in a month I will be up to 5 mile no problem runs and able to add hills. Right now though the flat lands and a couple miles will have to suffice.