Taking a Water Break

Some people might think I'm crazy trying to run fast, let alone just run. They ask, why not just walk, or take a step class? I sometimes wonder why I continue to run, and when I stop and think about it, there is no one reason, but a myriad of them, none of which make any sense but make all the sense in the world. The real reason I run is because it's what I know. I've been running since 8th grade. I ran track and cross country all through high school and in college. I was always fast and won medals, but never quite made it to state in high school, and in college never won any awards.

I have quit on occassion and missed it severely. For example, when I had surgery on my shins during my 2nd year of colllege and put on over 20 pounds and struggled to run again, I promised God to let me run fast again and I would never take running for granted again. Of course, I have taken the ability to run for granted many times, but whenever I start getting back in shape, I remember it's draw.

For me, the draw is simple, it's my water break from the world. It's a break from the hussle and flow of work, obligations, endless errands, bills and craziness. But sometimes the running gets to be a task, and I back off and do other things because if it's not fun, you shouldn't do it. Don't run just to run. Run for a reason. Run for the love of it and to think. I do do my best thinking while running. Today while I ran 4 miles on the treadmill and hated every moment of it, I thought about my former co-worker who lost her son yesterday, I thought about my career and where I'm going with my life, I thought about my appreciation for the ability to run and my friend who lost the ability to walk in an accident and then miraculously regained it through struggle over the last few years. I sang to Dave Matthews' "Ants Marching" and laughed at the absurdity of our regimented lives.

So this weekend, I invite everyone to take a water break from life and do something you love - see a movie, watch football with friends, take yoga, go for a run, play with your kids, and just appreciate it all. I'm not always good at that, but I try to remember to make a conscious effort for self improvement and compassion. Listen more, talk less. Eat more good foods, eat less junk. Give more, buy less.

Love From the Water Cooler,

Jaime

PS - if you are wondering about my ABCD's, here is a quick breakdown:

A - Achieving what I want slowly:
B - ran 4 miles @ 9 min pace on treadmill once again bc too icy outside. Ugh! I can't stand the treadmill! Listened to DMB and watched Samantha Brown's Passport to Europe which helped.
C - Speaking of Samantha Brown, how do I get her job? I'd love to be a travel writer/host. I have been looking at international jobs for Americans that are anywhere from 6 months to a more permanent position. I have a special interest in Denmark, but would love to live anywhere in Europe. Anyone have any suggestions for doing this? I don't want to practice law, but could possibly use my law degree to get some really fun job!

D - Duh - Dating? Yeah, I'm doing that.