November has been treating us to some nice running weather. It will end soon, but I keep trying to convince myself that I will wake up some morning in California or some other temperate - and less expensive - climate where I can run year round with minimal rain and some other sort of moisture in the air so my skin doesn't shrivel up like some sort of sun-dried tomato. Since that is most likely not going to happen, I need to figure out how to keep myself motivated to get out there even when it is super crappy outside. But, for today, I was happy to be able to run in shorts, t-shirt, arm-warmers, and gloves. The gloves came off after a mile or so.
I was thinking at one point - the point where I was running on 28 facing the traffic (primarily trucks and soccer moms in SUVs and vans on their cell phones) - thinking that I needed to find some sort of focus for this blog, other than all about me. Which is not to say, that my personal blog shouldn't be all about me. But, if I just write about running and my creaking joints, that's not much fun to read - or write.
I asked myself why am I really running? Is it to prove something to myself? Yes and no. I know I can do whatever I put my mind to, so that's a given. But, the idea of qualifying for one of the premier marathons in the country is pretty good incentive. Am I running from anything? In a way. Maybe I'm running from actually sitting down to finish writing my novel. I can also use the running to distance myself from commitment. Not that there is any imminent danger of me being committed (ha!) or making a commitment to someone. But, a training regime - especially a daunting one - can certainly help create a bit of distance. It also ensures that I have plenty of alone time since I do most of my running alone.
Then, I thought (this was a short run - just 35 minutes - but lots of fast thoughts) about my parents and their health issues. None of which - knock wood - I have had or will have. My dad had a triple bypass when he was 44. I didn't really know him at all. We didn't communicate for 30 years, so I really don't know alot about his health. He eventually died a couple of months after a major stroke and heart attack a bit shy of turning 72. My mom's health has been dicey since her left lung collapsed in 1969 and she almost died. She is prone to pneumonia if she gets a cold - AND - she still smokes. So, in a way, I'm running against the gene pool clock.
I am sure the combination of yoga and running will help strengthen me. I'm not really so interested in a long life if it's not healthy. As long as I can be spry mentally and physically, then it is worth living. And, of course, if I have loving people in my life.
No comments:
Post a Comment