In just the few short months I have picked up running, I have come across quite a few realizations. I love the sport. And not only because it allows me to eat more than in my previous sport of competing in fitness. I love the sport of running because it makes me a better person. Cliche? Yes. True? Even more so.

Running Makes Me…Stronger

With running, I get to test new limits frequently and achieve things I before would have balked at trying. Run a mile in under 9 minutes? Hah! Run 4, 5, 6, 7 miles at a time? You have got to be kidding me! Yet, I have learned that I can. Every time I accomplish something new on a run – managing a slightly quicker pace, pushing harder on the “hill of death”, reaching a new distance – I cannot help but to recognize my strength. And then want to push harder and see where my body will continue to take me in the future.

Running Makes Me…Saner

I admit that I can get frustrated with certain things and not keep the best of perspectives at times. I encountered a moment like that before my long run this past Saturday. I already mentioned that my progress this month has posed a few challenges for me. Well, Saturday I had another moment of disappointment when I did my weekly weigh in. Peter informed me I had a bump up, albeit small, in my weight. Immediately I had the knee-jerk reaction of feeling discouraged, but I laced up my sneakers and prepared myself for my run.

While running, I had the chance to reflect on why I felt so frustrated. It dawned on me that I believed I deserved more. Why? Well, I noticed that I had subconsciously tried cutting back on food too much over the course of the week in an attempt to counteract Easter holiday eating. I didn’t actively make that decision, but I guess old habits from many years still creep their way into my life…without me even noticing it until I take the time to look harder at things. My run allowed me the time to regain my composure and realign myself with my eating beliefs and what I hope to accomplish in my Body After Baby progress – health and happiness over a number. In short, it brought back my sanity.

Running Makes Me…Appreciative

I cannot go on a run without considering that amazing blessing of a healthy body. Seriously. The way our bodies can work to move in such ways and endure the things we put them through…wow! I have carried two children. I have put my body through crazy eating habits of years of binging and restricting. I push it hard in workouts. And it does not let me down. Time and time again. I thank God for my health every time I run.

Running Makes Me…Reflective

I get to have some of my best discussio ns with the most important figure in my life on my runs. I may bang out to some Glee music, but I still chat it up with God too. Being able to get into my head and lay it all at His feet comes naturally during a run. I love having that extra time to spend with Him outside of my regular prayer time.

Running Makes Me…Me

I thrive on fitness. Having fitness goals to work towards fulfills me in ways other things do not. Running fits so well into my passion for fitness and gives me the opportunity to pursue something fitness related that works well with my family, my time, my beliefs, and more – unlike other fitness goals I have worked towards. Plus, I love making friends and building relationships. The community of running and races allows me to connect with so many awesome people. Running undeniably suits my personality well.

• What physical activity do you love and what does it do for you?

Downfall: Running late. It doesn’t bother me much when others run late to things, but for some reason it drives me batty when I personally am late. Even by just a few minutes, like I was for my lunch date with Lee.

Bright Side: I was late because I plowed through a productive morning with a 7 mile run, getting grocery shopping finished, and taking care of little ones.

Downfall: A mad sunburn. On one arm. Oh, the attractiveness.

Bright Side: Sitting outside for a fabulous lunch to celebrate Lee’s birthday.

I couldn’t make her birthday party last weekend since my parents were staying overnight and it was the only night Peter & I could have our date. I knew I wanted to spend some time with her for her birthday though, so we planned a lunch get together. We met at the World Peace Cafe – a vegetarian cafe with great food based off organic, locally grown products.

I ordered a grilled veggie sandwich with the sun salad on the side.

And an unsweetened raspberry iced tea to drink.

So, so, so good! The sandwich was light tasting but filling and the salad had all the necessary items (fat, fruit, nuts) with avocado, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds. The food and, most importantly, time with a good friend certainly justify my lobster arm.

Downfall: Black Swan.

Peter & I watched Black Swan on Saturday night. I kind of hated it. I understood the underlying messages in the movie, but it all bored me and just seemed too weird. Plus, I would get the chills seeing all the ribcage action. I know that is part of the ballerina thing, but it still bothered me.

Bright Side: Having a simple, relaxing night with my husband. This little treat we picked up didn’t hurt either…

Downfall: The weekend is now over.

Bright Side: I have a busy, but good, week ahead and feel refreshed going in to it after some yoga and quality discussion yesterday in church. God showed me, for the umpteenth millionth time, that His understanding and wisdom far exceeds our own. That great things are possible when trusting in Him. That following Him always leads to a bigger, brighter side of life. Now, hopefully, that refreshed feeling will last me. For at least a day or two. 😉

• Have you seen Black Swan?
• What bright side have you encountered recently?