Running for My Soul

A couple days after the marathon I ran a couple easy short runs. My body felt great and I was already planning my next marathon (November 30th). Six days after the marathon I went on a 10 mile run that ended with me limping back to the car at the end of 10 miles. My right arch was killing me. I took it easy that day and the next day I headed out for an easy 4 miles... nearly two miles in I realized I would never make it and I limped crying back to the car.

I rested for days but no improvement and I ended up with a Podiatrist who diagnosed me as I expected... Plantar Fasciitis (in both feet). I have spent the last month (longest month of my life) not running. I swam miles and miles, I've lifted, I've done ab workouts... but no running. I run for my sanity. I run for my soul. It works out my stress, my frustrations, my problems... I run long distance to leave all of my thoughts & pain on the road. Not being able to run for a month = an emotional roller coaster for me.

Last week I was cleared to start a few very short runs a week. That first run had me running down the side of the road with the biggest smile on my face. People in cars must have thought I was crazy.

I posted this picture on facebook with the caption "Running Shoes Make Me Happy" -- so true!

Well today, I'm positive everyone thought I was nuts. In the middle of a wintery mix of sleet/snow/ice I went out for an afternoon run (Plantar Fasciitis is worse in the mornings). This is my all-time favorite weather to run in thanks to an awesome gift last Christmas. Today I got dressed for the cold weather and went exploring (since no one would be around to call the cops get upset). This run was exactly what I needed. I felt refreshed, I felt renewed and I didn't want to stop (I did make myself after an extra mile). This was the exact run I needed for my soul....

All bundled up for my run

The Piano I found in a field on my run today...

Gorgeous piano in the middle of a field

Snow Running

Right before Christmas my running friend Kuhlmann gave me one of the best Christmas gifts: Yaktrax Pro - traction for my running shoes for running in the snow. I had just read an article with tips for running in the snow & the article suggested either trail shoes or running traction. After giving me the awesome gift, he laughed and said I'd probably not even need them.... jinx!

I'm glad he jinxed us because I wanted a little snow (although it's already calling for more for this weekend). I had two runs this week with the traction (a 6 miler and a 8 miler) and LOVED the added traction in the snow and ice. I miraculously didn't fall, which is surprising because I often fall without snow and ice.

Yaktrax Pro on my Brooks Tennis Shoes (drying over the heat vent)