I am a runner. It feels good to say this because three months ago I wasn't. In fact, three months ago I was overweight, had high blood pressure, high cholesterol, was tired, outta shape, and unable to fit in any of my Seven for all Man Kind Jeans. Needless to say I was feeling like a suburban van mommy...not a hot n sexy van mommy.
Today I love to run. Putting on my running shoes and running away from home is the most liberating part of my day (imagine that!). I am addicted to the high that I get pushing my body a little faster, a little further day after day. I can run a mile in 8 minutes, 2 miles in 18, 3 in just over 30...I can run 5 miles at 7 in the morning, and I have run pretty much every day except for about 9 days in 2011 clocking more than 70 miles total!!! It's nothing short of a miracle, really. When I run I feel free and strong. It's a time for me to reflect and find peace. It's a time for me to push against myself to be mentally tough and physically fit. It's a time for me to realize how strong I am and how strong I can be. It's me finding me. And I love it.
But there's a little secret to my madness...and the secret is the strength that gives me the energy and desire to push myself beyond my limits every day. Its nothing illicit, nothing that can be bought...packaged in a book and sold...maybe...what it is is a force that has been around for many years...a force that is stronger than iron...it's the age old power of women.
I have a little fitness club consisting of some amazing women. They are near and far, new friends (some I have never met in real life) and old friends, accomplished athletes and weekend warriors, mommies of crazy kids and dog mommies, independent single women, runners, skaters, dancers, boxers,ZUMBA-ers, in shape, outta shape...all walks of life with the common denominator of being supportive and giving.
These women have done what no one has been able to do (aside from Mr. Moses, Eder, Derbs, Mr. Murton...well, and my parents) and that's keep my running. Their stories are inspiring, their courage amazing...their will infectious. Every day I see them overcoming adversity to get some "me" time in to do better for their bodies and their souls. The result? Improved confidence, better relationships, less stress, more laughter. For me? Sevens that fit. Nough said. I can get my groove on. I got my mo-jo back.
So I write this post to thank my girlz who have enabled me to run my first 5 miles for fun. Who support me in running and in life. Who tell me it's okay to take a day off. Who encourage me to eat more ice cream and run a little less for my soul. Who try to wake me up in the middle of the night to get a good deal on Yoga then buy it for me when I slumber on. Who have no shame to talk about futs, bike shorts, or fat....and who jumped rope like Naomi Campbell to lose face weight.
I will never ever underestimate the power of WOMEN. And I will forever be indebted to my LGF2011 Girls. Thanks ladies. Thanks for helping me feel sexy again. Thanks for giving me the gift of being able to fly. Thanks for the positive support I get from you every day. Thanks for sharing your strength that makes me tough. Can't wait to run our marathon in 2012...and don't worry I am planning our GNO!!!
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