I'm the first one

 

 

Yes, I have started running again (no, Dave, no one is chasing me). Yes, it coincided with Lent this time. Yes, it may seem as if I am trying to drop some poundage that I have accumulated through five glorious pregnancies over the last 8+ years. You would be right about that but there is more.

 

The Lent aspect, while not planned, is entirely appropriate (I do love when the Holy Spirit works that out so I don't have to). I have never been someone who is overly concerned with my appearance (I know, you are shocked). I like to dress up and go out but, generally, it's just not me. When it comes to exercise, I'd much rather go to 10 AM Mass than hit the gym. Again, that's just me.

Lately, though, I have been having conversations and thinking about things. It is true that my body has been given to me by God and I should cherish it as such. I don't do drugs, abuse alcohol, etc., and so far, that has been enough for me. This Lent, however, I have been concentrating more on the fasting aspect and, to my surprise, it works for me. It is when I push myself and limit or deny myself that I feel closer to the cross. I like that.

 

Then there are my five little blessings. God has entrusted them to me and, for as long as He wills it, I am in charge of helping to bring them up to follow Him. I need to be present as much as possible to fulfil this duty and not be a burden to them that would keep them from following His will.

 

So, back to the treadmill I go. Some days, anyway. Other days, I take the kids to the gym and we run around and bounce a basketball and kick a soccer ball. That one I like better because we all get to be active at once. I am missing Spring...long family walks and lots of time outside.

For now, it's 2 miles at a time. Usually 13- or 14-minute miles but, hey, that is still two miles ;0)