#122 - Don't Like My Running Style

There's nothing pretty or impressive about my running style these days.  During chemo I grew to accept my stop & go, sluggish pace... the rare times I tried to run.

Since radiation started, I've had more energy and less muscle fatigue, but I still feel like I'm in one of those "running in molasses" dreams.  And it's obvious from my socks that I've given up on my running fashion.

Running in the Dark

Back when mornings were dark, I was able to motivate myself to run more easily. When Daylight Saving Time ended, I felt like the sunshine was spotlighting my draggy pace, as well as my silly head covering.    

The bandana/ball cap combo seems to be the only thing that will no slip off my head. 

Running in Broad Daylight

The other day I talked myself into walk/running with Don in the afternoon. It was a beautiful day, with more people wandering the neighborhood.  I added sunglasses to my running costume and hoped to avoid social stops along the way.

We almost finished the "loop" when I spotted some neighbors I haven't seen in months.  I dreaded the slowdown, but our short encounter ended up giving me a boost.  I was surprised by the warmth of our kind neighbors, who had heard of my cancer through the grapevine. I had expected an awkward meeting and instead was given some kind words, a little hand holding and a promise of prayers.  Hindu prayers actually.  My first.

Motivation Needed

The other morning I took a different route. I needed to distract myself with different views and get my mind off how much I hate running these days.

I laughed at the sign that scared my kids when we moved into the neighborhood 18 years ago.

No Gators

I enjoyed running along the creek keeping an eye out, where I spotted a gator once, many years ago. But the only wildlife I saw was of the flying sort.

A Stump

Another morning, I attempted another route and ended up behind my son's old middle school.  As I trotted by, I remembered the year it opened, when Scott started 6th grade. There were 2 big trees then.  
​Today there is just one grand tree and a pretty humongous stump. I had to take a moment to study the rings, before moving on.

Greeting Others

I like to run in my own private world. I consider my run a success, if I complete it without seeing another human.  One day, I attempted to change my introverted attitude by greeting everyone. One feeble looking man looked up from his pecan picking chore, with a look of surprise. I repeated, "Good Morning!" and a grin covered his face. Then I noticed a new crossing guard! The old one refused to smile and the new guy hollered, "Beautiful day!"

New Attitude

After a few greetings, my altered route took me along the backside of the lake, just as the morning sun hit the fountain. 

I stopped and took a cell phone pic and sighed. My dreaded run had given me some nice moments.

It's nice to know, exercise will only get easier after I finish up treatments. For now, I'm going to enjoy the scenery more and worry less about how I look... in the scene.