11 March 2007

Out of the Frying Pan and into the Fire

Boy, that last post about my mother-in-law was boring! Jeepers.

Here's something certain to be of much greater interest: I went running today!

I was thinking of DoctorMama the whole time.

I used to run a lot. Well, a lot for someone who never thought she'd run at all unless she had to in order to save her life. For just over a year before I got pregnant, I ran about 30 miles a week. Then I got pregnant and running made me feel like I was going to die. So I stopped, and instead did things like the elliptical, stationery bike, walking, etc.

I've missed running a lot, but it's hard to coordinate a time when GH has enough energy to watch the twins, the twins don't need my boobs, etc., especially during the dark of winter.

But lo! Spring is coming. And yesterday I ran into my upstairs neighbor who is a nice guy who is a runner himself. I asked him what his pace was, and, upon finding it one that I had a snowball's chance in hell of keeping after not having run in eighteen months, I casually said, "Hey, ho, if you ever want a running partner, I'm trying to get back in the swing of things and I'd love to join you." He countered with an offer to stop by at 9:00 this morning, and I found myself with a running date.

I stuffed myself into my sports bra this morning and awaited the bell. I felt slightly intimidated by his cool gear, but I tried not to let it show. Before I knew it, we were off on a three-mile out-and-back. I was good for the first 1.5 miles, then we took a walk break together at the midpoint. Then we ran some more, but I soon needed another walk break. I encouraged Running Neighbor to keep on keeping on, which he did. I alternated running and walking for the remainder of the distance.

I now simultaneously feel like a million bucks and like ass. Mostly like a million bucks, though. The sun is out, it feels like spring, and I went running! So much more interesting than my mother-in-law woes, don't you think?

4 comments:

Robin J. said...

Way to go. Running might be your best medicine!

Rachel said...

I'm glad that you are running. Sounds like good therapy.

BTW, I read and reread your MIL post...all I can say is that you have my sympathy. It sounds like she is trying to control the uncontrollable, and in the process making your life even more impossible. I know you want a solution, but I don't think there is one, except maybe distance. Hugs.

Anonymous said...

I ran an 8K this past weekend, I was so happy when I started running again last fall. Congrats, it really has helped me a lot with trying to stay sane:)

Good job!

On the MIL thing, I know I've said before, I don't have one, but whew, you really have it in spades with her. I commend you for acknowledging her side, and for knowing what you need, and knowing you're probably not going to get it when it comes to her. Tough situation, sorry for that stress on you all.

DoctorMama said...

I'm very impressed! That's quite a comeback!