Feelin' good

In the midst of any trial, there is always some respite. Even in the depths of disappointment or the challenge of constant stress, there always seems to be a saving grace that can take the edge off the lowest point. Mine came today. Lately, it's felt like life is a stream of stress and frustration, be it with mediocre races or the pressure of performing in other areas, especially school. Today, however, was my own personal timeout. It was the calm before the storm, so to speak, but it was enough to give me the energy to make it through a high stakes week. To begin with, I took two subject tests, effective eliminating a fraction of the testing I'm in for. After that, however, the real fun started. It began with a lovely 7.5 mile run, which, I'm proud to report, took merely 59 minutes and 49 seconds. This included the two mile "warm up" that I did with my dad, after which I just continued running. I was going to try to run with music, but 30 seconds into the first song I pulled out my headphones and just embraced the day. It was a beautiful 55 degrees and overcast, perfect running weather. I didn't feel like I was pushing the pace but I did feel strong, and just kept running. It was amazing, one of those times when the sidewalk squares flit below my feet and the predictable sounds of suburban life feel comforting as opposed to stifling. My mind wandered aimlessly and I relaxed into a removed tranquility that only dissipated after I'd gotten into a hot shower. Post-run, I buckled down and did a bit of homework, though even this seemed relaxing in stead of laborious; getting responsibilities out of the way takes pressure off my shoulders and allows me to breathe a bit easier. Finally, I settled down to make some chocolate cupcakes with salted Carmel buttercream, which were pretty dang tasty and very therapeutic (picture and recipe to come!). Later, I spent the night with my sister and her friend from college who are finally home! I didn't know how much I missed her, but laughing with her throughout the night reminded me of how much I love having her around. So, even with all these looming challenges, I will sleep well tonight knowing that even in the most strenuous times there can be joy. I often think of a relatively famous family in the area that consists of several phenomenal runners and feel a pang of envy. However, with the support and love I got from mine today in my tests, my run, and the company we enjoyed, I am completely happy with the family vie got. More than happy, I know I'm completely blessed. I think family plays a much more important role in our success than we expect, and this includes running. Though having a family that trains intensively and is competitive may seem like the best option, I really appreciate having one slightly removed from the running community. They place no additional pressure on me and merely serve to support me. I have coaches, teammates, and running role models already. What I really need is the respite of unconditional love that a family can provide so readily in order to continue pouring so much effort into everything I do.