Run Like a Mother

This past Sunday, May 1st was the annual Broad St. Run in Philadelphia. For those non-locals, it's the largest 10 mile run in the country. That makes it an amazing and very entertaining run, but a meet-up post run nightmare. This was my first distance run post Edward and I was more than excited to hit the pavement.

There is something fantastic about training and running with friends (and day of strangers for that matter too.) It brings life to the saying 'misery loves company.' As long as I'm out on this long run it's nice to know that someone else is there too. I've been fortunate enough to either befriend runners or those willing enough to give it a try and for that I am grateful.

There's something powerful about running in a mass of people and weird all at the same time.  There's camaraderie and a sense of togetherness, but also sweaty people that you don't know and some wearing inappropriate shorts.  I'd like to say I do it for the glory, but who am I kidding? My 'run' is barely above a slow jog pace and I'll only ever walk away with my 'finisher' medal.

I do it for all the other reasons... so I can continue to eat burritos and drink beer and not gain massive amounts of weight, to blare my i-pod, to high-five friends that completed their first or fiftieth long run, for a sweet escape, for the tailgate after and now to be a good example to my child about a healthy lifestyle. I guess I could skip out on the first few years and he would never know, but it'll be nice to have the photos to prove I didn't.

It feels great to remain passionate about the things that I loved BE. I eagerly anticipate my next adventure, a local half-marathon with some amazing women in my life. I'd be lying if I didn't mention that I'm also eagerly anticipating this one because you get a pint glass instead of a medal at the end (much more practical.)



So, over the past week I focused on the idea of camaraderie and commitment.
Camaraderie....
 Whether it be the random runner that your jam packed against in your coral, fellow countrymen (after the much awaited news of the terrorist take down) or your nearest and dearest,

I like the idea of focusing on goodwill and light hearted rapport with others (according to Webster). This is clearly something that all of us could use more of daily in our lives.

Commitment....
As my husband likes to say, 'running...it's harder than it looks.' I agree with him, but I think it's mentally harder than physically. It's takes a lot of motivation to get out there on some days and stay committed.

Post baby running adds a whole other element. You're tired and you have extra baggage (the lingering weight, not the baby.) Most of the Broad St. run I found myself wondering why am I here and not hanging at home with him?! And then this song came on (the 1st one in case you're a slow reader) around mile 6 and the tears followed. It became one of my favorite songs to jog to while I was pregnant. Take note of the tempo, yes it matches my pace. While it evoked tears it made me think that doing this is making me a better person, a better mom. I'm doing something for me, which makes me better for him. The finish has never been sweeter. The run is different, it's better!

So, if you've ever thought of walking, running or maybe doing your first 5k....give it a shot and run like a mother! Everyone loves a great finish!!

                                                          Live Wildly. Love Deeply.

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