This morning – after an evening of beer, french fries, and general poor nutrition-related decisions – I laced up for a brisk run with my Sunday run buddy. As far as run buddies go, this one is exceptional - far superior in athleticism (her pipes are like Madonna's) and humble all the same. Never complains that I am slowing her down (I am) and always help me push further (5 10-flight stair sets post-run today had me dry-heaving all the way home.)
I arrived at our meeting place half blissed out and eager (the sun was shining, the sky was blue, and I didn't need mittens) and half hoping she'd bail so I could go back to bed. My chest and arms were stiff and sore from my first upper body workout since September's hand-breaking incident. The push-ups still haunt me - two days later.
Alas, she arrived.
Spunky.
Ready.
Hilarious.
Ready to zip and push my limits.
We had a 5k in mind. And hit the sea wall with gusto.
The great thing about these Sunday runs isn't just that I'm running again after a long and arduous uphill battle back from back pain and lethargy, but it's that I'm finally loving it again. I'm back in that happy spot where running isn't a chore, it's a therapy.
I've missed this.
I've yearned for it actually.
I grieved for the feeling when it slipped away too year ago.
And today, while we ran, talked, huffed, puffed, and sweated around corners, up hills, on the ocean front, I didn't feel it or loathe it or wish it to be over. It just was. And I just ran.
I was in my element.
And I didn't know it until it was over and I had nothing but pleasure and satisfaction and beaming smiles inside about it.
Sure – I'm a minute off my old per/km rate – and probably will be for some time. My stride is gnarlier than usual. And my bum bounces more than it used to (or than it should).
But, man, did it feel good out there this morning.
I didn't notice my aching quads, my stiff calves, or my tight hips.
Instead I noticed how the misty sea breeze felt on my face.
I noticed the smell of salty seaweed on sea wall's edge.
I noticed how warm the sun felt on my face.
I noticed how nice it was to spend time with a friend and feel nourished in soul.
It's good to be back.
