It is clearly evident that my husband and I are not the only ones ready for spring. This bitter Rochester winter has also hit hard on my 3 & 5 year old. The Strong Museum of Play, Rochester Museum and Science Center, play gym at the JCC, local mall fun areas and anywhere else that can allow them to run out their energy has reached its limit. As I sit here watching them run around in circles, trying to avoid scatter toys around our family room, I can't help but relate to their inner desire to just "break free" from these 4 walls.
I wonder if I gave them the chance to lace up their running shoes (and throw on their snowsuit, of course) if they would get more satisfaction out of a run outside in the snow than I have this whole month combined. The snow has been the biggest obstacle for me this winter. My feet are pretty sore after each run due to the wonderful plantar fasciitis that his hit my left foot something fierce. On top of the snow, I'm dodging cars who are sliding all over the road, praying they don't hit me. It's just like how my 3 year old dodges his toy cars while he runs and jumps over them on the floor.
Cabin fever is at its boiling point in the Meyer household and I know I'm not alone. What stinks is that I hate talking about it with friends, and wish I found some enjoyment like the many I see posting pictures of trail running, snowshoeing, and any other winter sports they have been able to enjoy this past month. I wish I didn't feel so defeated by Mother Nature this year. Last year, during this exact season, was when I chose to begin my running journey. It didn't feel like this. It was exciting, even though I went through the emotions of hating running for even two minutes at times. I was running intervals and training my body to become a runner completely oblivious of the snow. (Granted, my feet were not of high concern at that time.) I didn't mind the inconsistent levels, textures or inches of snow that crowded the sides of the streets. I didn't feel like an inconvenience to drivers who were trying to get home after their long day at work. And I certainly didn't feel as stressed if I couldn't complete the "assigned homework" for the day. This year is different... doesn't Mother Nature know I have a half to be prepared for in April? I was so naive a year ago and had my own issues of just sticking to the running program and homework. I know the weather tried throwing me some curve balls then, but I threw them right back!
Now that I was able to get that out, lets end with a positive. As I sit here, watching the kids play (and drive me to my breaking point... ) I need to take a deep breath and remind myself that Spring is out there, waiting to begin. Somewhere underneath all that snow those seeds and buds are ready to start their beautiful transformation. Those birds who are loving the South (like many of my family and friends who were able to escape the cold) will be coming back soon. I'll need them so they can chirp as I run past them as I catch a nice breeze through my hair. Soon tulips and daffodils will show their pretty petals to the world. Even sooner, my kids will be able to ESCAPE their unkempt play room and run free for as long as they're able to. And before long, the strength I'm building during each trying workout, (or the strength I tell myself I have been building after each pounding step in the slush and snow) will all be worth it.... and I'll soon see the change that this hard winter has given me.
One. Step. At. A. Time.
Alright Spring, we're here when you're ready...
Love, The Meyer Family.
Thanks for reading!!!
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