Monday, December 08, 2008

Life is good

Well, I pulled off a 15-miler (24 K) this past Saturday. It was the first time since September I've done more than 13 miles, so I'm happy. Overall, my weekly mileage is gradually increasing and I'm loving it.

The downside is that I'm spending less time in the gym, but that's OK. I love running, and I'm so grateful that my legs and knees are letting me do what I love. I have learned that I have good stamina and I'm learing to appreciate it. I find this sense of tranquility out there on those long runs, alone with my iPod.

Tonight I did an easy 10K (6 miles) after school. We had a big dump of snow yesterday. The sidewalks were slippery, with ice in some spots, snow in some spots and black ice in others. There were very few spots that were very well cleared and safe. So it was slow going. But who cares? It was blissful.

Can you tell I'm feeling grateful? Yesterday I attended a funeral for the husband of a classmate. He didn't suddenly of a massive heart attack. So sad. And today is the anniversary of my Mum's death. It's been 9 years. The sharpness of the anguish has subsided, but I'm not sure the sadness will ever completely disappear. That is OK. I'm not sure I'd want it to.

Now, instead of the sadness overwhelming me, it makes me contemplative. That leads me to think about all that I have... all that I enjoy. A loving family and excellent friends top the list. Good health is up there, too. And I appreciate having the fitness level to do things like 15 mile runs when I feel like it. Really, with these things, life is pretty darned good.

11 comments:

Legs and Wings said...

I agree that you have good stamina. Some might call you feisty and fearless, determined and stubborn - in the kindest way of course.

Congratulations on putting the miles together. You're right, we'll have to exchange notes. I'm got my plan together as a pdf. Maybe I'll email it when I get to the office.

Alexandra said...

Such a nice post Sarah! I bet your Mum would be so proud of you and what you have accomplished in life so far. They are always near, forever dear!

Good work with your running! Even though it's not easy going at times in this weather, I still think it's very pretty!

Your upbeat nature is wonderful!

Sarah said...

There is so much to be grateful for! Enjoy that feeling and all you've accomplished. : )

ipm said...

all these things happen, nothing we can do to stop or change them.

but to take within our own lives a greater sense of awareness, pleasure and thanks...

sounds like that's just what you're doing...

Backofpack said...

Hey great run! You are moving toward that marathon with ease.

Contemplative, thankful, joyful - they are all good. I think your Mum would be proud.

Sander & Liesbeth said...

Hi Sarah,
Indeed, that sadness is always part of life. But, like you, I also think it adds a lot of good to your life: the thankfulness and appreciation for everything we have, and the deeper contacts with people it has given. You've said it beautifully!
Have a nice day!
Liesbeth.

Unknown said...

I love running in the snow even if it is a bit slow going. Well done on the 15 miler.

Amy said...

I often think of that when I run: how grateful I am to be able to do it, how important it is to be aware of all that we have in the moment, because it can be gone in an instant. We lost someone close to our family this past summer and I often feel a deep connection to him when I run. Moving meditation is so good for the soul!

Turtle Guy said...

One of your most touching posts.

I remember when to "keep on, keeping on" topped your list. Now "grateful" and "comtemplative" are teamed with an appreciation for the things that are in place (that you put there) that allow you to do the things you love to do. This indeed equals "pretty darned good"!

Turtle Guy said...

Um... Jeremiah's back.

Anonymous said...

Keep up the good mood. It is always hard to go to a funeral or an event like that. No one can ever prepare for those moments. Therefore, the best we can do is to be happy and be grateful for what we have.

Great spirit!!

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