Two nights ago i realized how many lessons running teaches.  i realized why it appeals to some and not to others.  Chandlur has been asking for a while now to go running with me.  When i go in the morning that is me time and i don’t want to be distracted.  Finally, i decided to take him as an extra evening workout.  i had no idea how he would do.  We walked more than we ran and it was only about 1/2 a mile, however, it was fantastic.  Chandlur even said when we got home, he wanted to go again.  Along the way i talked to him about the little tricks i use when i get tired and don’t want to continue.  i was always the chubby one in the crowd and far from athletic.  He is incredibly athletic and far from chubby (its impressive what he can pack away!!).  To be able to bond with him over this sport is priceless for me.  The Olympics have been on quite a bit in our house this last week and a half.  Running has been the only sport he really got into and watched completely enthralled.  This mama’s heart swells with pride.  Maybe he will pick up the running bug too and we can have great times lacing up our shoes and going for a run together.

The lessons running has taught me:

• Discipline-if you slack off, you have to build your endurance up again.
• Positive Self Talk-when i get tired, i tell myself “ok, we are almost there “,  “just a few more feet”,  “to the pole, to the pole, to the pole”….you get the picture.
• Goal Setting-every week i go a little bit further than the previous week.  Also, acheiving a goal that is tuff.  Right now, it’s that huge hill comming back down Oleson.  i force myself to get to the top and boy does it feel wonderful, instant gratification from my goal.  Whew, makes me out of breath thinking about it.
• Self Confidence-knowing what i can/have accomplished.
• One bad time can’t get me down-There are times when my run for the day didn’t go well.  i have to assess why and not beat myself up.  The next one will be better.
• i am a role model-It’s humbling knowing how much my kids look up to me.  They all want to go running when they get older.
• When i quiet my brain, i can be inspired-When i have a problem and need enlightenment, or i need inspiration for a current project, i set my intention and take off.  All of a sudden it will come to me when i am only focused on my breathing.

i know i will never be a running superstar, however, i still can be in my own head.

This has been one of those crazy weeks that leave you doubting your sanity and ability to juggle all the balls at the same time. I had some extra kids, trying new parenting techniques fromLove and Logic, and just the usual busy we have going on with 3 young ones (the oldest is getting ready for kindergarten!), a business, and a household (which reminds me, i really need to get my kitchen floor clean! tomorrow??). There have not been many moments to sit and breath. Running with no headphones provides me those small moments of peace i am desperate for. i went for my run yesterday morning as usual. As i was chugging along (the joy of choosing a hilly route!) All of a sudden i saw an older woman i would guess mid fifties running toward me. She had short, just below the ears curly blond/gray hair. She had on black spandex shorts with a turquoise tank and listening to some headphones (and in great shape i might add). i can see her so clearly! She looked at me with a big grin and enthusiastically said “You go girl!!” This was no usual passing. Usually i can see someone coming because i keep my eyes up looking at the landmarks. i like to play mind games with myself so i don’t stop when it gets hard. Usually i get a wave, a smile, or many times a quick hi. After this woman passed my whole back began to tingle. It started at the base of my spine and went all the way to the top of my head (all through my chakras if you believe in them). In all of my experiences with the spiritual world, i have never before had this intense of a physical response. i think i was just encouraged by an angel!