Gratitude

So I am officially in training mode for the 50k in October. I can't stop thinking about it and every time I do, I am overcome by excitement. Now because it's only July I know I must temper myself somewhat but really, I am so happy with my goal. I was telling my mom, once again, how thrilled I am. And she said it just right, "It's like you have a part of yourself back..." It's true, the last time I was training for a race was before Tessa, before pregnancy. That's almost six years ago and yes, I missed it and yes, I ached for the solitude of a long run along the Charles River, though I knew what I was doing, birthing babies, nursing, snuggling in the early morning light, was just right. The time for running more, pushing myself physically would come again and here I am, the again is upon me and I'm so thankful. My children don't need me like they once did. Tessa makes her own toast each morning. I am free to rise before they wake and make my way through the town, running so that when I get home I am a better mom than when I left. And though I miss the nursing snuggles, I am so proud of what I accomplished in the earliest years of their life. Now, it's my job to integrate all the parts of myself and racing is part of that. I ran the Blue Heron Bridge with a new friend, Dave M. He's delighted me with the ways of ultra running and introduced me to many new people. And though we've just met, I know our friendship will grow and he will serve as a great running mentor. Gratitude for where I am and those who stand beside me.