Friday, November 11, 2011

Mother Runner


As I’ve mentioned more than once, I’m slowly trying to build a regular running routine. Some of you may ask, “Still? You’ve been saying this FOREVER, lady.” Yeah, I know. I get started, then I fall off the wagon dealing with all-things life. But, I keep coming back to it. I want to be healthier, I want to increase my fitness activity, I want more energy, I want to build muscle tone and I want to wear cute running outfits.

So, when I’m tired after a long day at work and ready to call it quits after giving my kids a bath or helping with homework, I’ve had to force myself to get on the treadmill. And once I do, I feel great. I crank up the music and run. It’s just keeping the excuses not to exercise at bay. It’s easy to talk yourself out of exercising, be it early in the morning (“One more hour of sleep, please!”) or in the evening (“I just want to crawl into bed!”).

Granted, I would prefer running outside, but now that Daylight Savings Time has ended, I have to reserve my outdoor runs for weekends. Bummer, I know. But, at least I’m getting a smoother run on the treadmill.

So, as I take another crack at a regular running routine, I went looking for inspiration. I found a book called “Run Like a Mother.” Then, I learned there’s a blog and Facebook page, “Another Mother Runner,” produced by the authors of the book. I am loving these sites right now and plan to order the book. And, I can’t get my hands on this T-shirt fast enough:

Oh, yeah, I need this for runnin’ in the 'hood.

For those of you who exercise regularly, be it running, aerobics, cycling, swimming – you name it – are there blogs, books or websites that you turn to for motivation? If so, what are they and why are they your go-to sites?

And, thanks again for indulging me in my recent rants. I appreciate the feedback I received from everyone. It's Friday, dear friends. We made it.
Images from anothermotherrunning.com

16 comments:

highheeledlife said...

YAY!! any sort of activity is great for us... i've recently returned to Yoga (though slower paced, restorative Yoga -) it is helping. Getting out there and actually doing something is the toughest part. Gosh I wish I could go running it is so good for the heart.. You go girl!

Just read your "rants" well worded on all counts. Children of all ages should be safe no matter where they are ESPECIALLY in an educational environment.

I will never understand why people with "problems" keeping to themselves- when it comes to children - do not seek the help they need. This is no longer a hidden thing ... THERE IS HELP OUT THERE ... and why anyone would turn the other way , really is beyond understanding. Abuse of any sort ( be it physical, verbal , emotional etc.) is unacceptable against anyone!

Yes, I agree .. it's trying watching people who are famous, for being famous. I would like to see them use their fame to bring awareness to issues like child poverty; women's issues etc.

As always I love that you do not stand on the side-lines!!! xo HHL

JMW said...

Thanks, HHL. I totally agree with your assessment as well. It's such a sad turn of events. I hope everyone will continue to pray for these victims - as well as all victims of abuse. The damage is done, but I'm hoping that they can get the help they need to someday live safe, happy and healthy lives. Have a great weekend, my friend!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

Good for you to get up and going. A running buddy would be motivating.
I am walking more and walking alone but walking mindfully and taking my camera along with me with an eye for future blog posts. That's what keeps me going, that and several pounds and inches have been shed which is a bonus.

LIvestrong is a great spot for online help.
Good luck!

helen tilston said...

You can do it. We are proud of you.

Many years ago, I attended a lecture by a motivational speaker, whose motto was "All things just take 15 mins"...assign 15 mins even at the busiest time and once we get into the chore of course we continue, but allow yourself to quite after 15 mins - it is amazing how this works.

Continued success
Helen xx

Ella said...

I also read your "rants" and I always get upset when there are things like that on the news, but that reminds me of how important it is that I talk about it with my students. They must know their rights and what to do if they are treated bad.

I'm so glad that you get on the treadmill. I know that I will start my healthier life some day.... but right now I'm enjoying a peaceful Friday night in the sofa with chocolate and ice cream:)
Happy weekend!

Sarah Bowen Shea said...

So glad our site and Facebook page are providing you with needed inspiration. We appreciate you spreading the word about those and our merch.

Have a great weekend!
SBS

annechovie said...

You go girl!!Enjoy your wknd.xx

kayce hughes said...

I have not been great lately but did get in 2 miles today just before it turned dark.
Let me know how you like the book. I can always use a little inspiration or kick in the pants.

Jessica Ryan said...

I can't run anymore -- my knees are too shot. I tried Zumba a year ago and I am HOOKED! I love to dance and this is an amazing dance workout. You don't have to be a dancer. I love the music and I love the women (all ages) that I work out with. My classes are at a great time and I have now gotten to the point where I cannot start my day without them, and my day feels lost if for some reason I can't go in the morning.

Last summer I did A LOT of walking. A high paced, calorie-burning walk. I had my iTunes and took off. I actually like to walk in solitude. I can get creative ideas and clear my head. I have Nike+ sneakers and with a $20 from Apple I can sync my music to suit my pace. This device calculates how far I've gone, how long I've gone and how many calories burned. It's a great thing to have.

Good luck!

Beth Dunn said...

Good for you that you stick with it and go back to it! I always say I'm going to run but end up walking.
xoxo
SC

LPC said...

I love that run like a mother. Puts the toughness of motherhood right out there. I've been walking to work 3 days/week and am looking at ways to do it on a 4th as well. Feels incredible, once you commit.

Toad said...

Sadly, I've found no easy way to keep at it. My Matra has become nothing tastes as good as fitness feels. Just do it. I too love the rants.

Rob Boddice said...

There's an Aussie guy who flies under the banner of 'Run Like Crazy' - google it, he's inspiring. He ran 52 marathons in 52 weeks, while trying to keep his body together. Whenever I feel like quitting, I check out his website.

myletterstoemily said...

way to go, mom! the healthier you are, the
better mommy you will be. i have about
20 years on you and have always worked out.
it helps . . . a lot!

bevy said...

I so need to get into it! Yea... Right! LOL. But good for you!

Southern Living: Preppy Style said...

I am a wanna be runner as well. I'm supposed to be training for my first 5k in December and I'm slow and sluggish. Not too mention, my 2.5 miles take 30 minutes. Not sure I'll ever finish a 5k!