Running is cheaper then therapy

Isn't that the truth...and way less time consuming.

We definitely have a love/hate thing going. Depending on the day, the whole run is like a high where I  conjure up all these great things I can or will do and believe anything is possible. Other days....straight #strugglebus. But running is a strong, consistent relationship that is literally available at any place, any time. And any problem you have seems so much smaller after a run.

My running: when I'm actively training, I run four days a week. I'm blessed with a job that is 5 minutes from home and daycare. And if I have no after school meetings, I have a fair chunk of time before daycare pick up to get it done. And if that doesn't work out, we are also fortunate to have a treadmill in our garage for less than optimal conditions, (because God knows I love running in my 90 degree garage while my kids nap this summer).

Luckily, our relationship is on the upswing. The stars are aligned and I am starting to love running again. There were a few things along the way that helped:

• A new fuel belt. Lord comfort is key...and after 9 years my old, oddly fitting, missing every water bottle, Nike belt was done...and smelled.
• Back to some morning runs versus afternoon. Over. This. Humidity.
• Changed up my play list..finally cashed in the those ITunes gift cards from Santa. And yeap, Taylor Swift is up on in, and not ashamed to admit it.
• I've finally hit my nurition. Less expensive gels and blocks, more kid snacks..apple sauce and fruit snacks.
• Best change: ran with people. Like the Beatles said, "...I get by with a little help from my friends..."

Running also has a very special place in my heart. My husband is a runner...and our very first conversation centered around running. One of my fondest memory when we first started dating was Tuesday nights-we had a standing running date followed by cooking dinner together. Running is such a huge part of our lives, that it was only fitting that he proposed that way, right before the finish of Indianapolis's Irish Festival 5K 8 years ago, (even if put the kabosh on my PR that race : )

Bottom line. Running is a beautiful thing. If you are physically able, don't waste this amazing gift. And seriously. It is way cheaper then therapy. As much as goat rodeo my life is, cutting out my running is non-negotiable, and dangerous for anyone close to me.