Friday was my first day off work since before Halloween. The past few weeks I kept busy teaching first grade as a long term substitute while the teacher was on maternity leave. It was a fantastic learning experience and it reminded me of how much I miss teaching in the classroom. You see, before I was a mom I was a teacher. I loved it. I am looking forward to having my own classroom again soon… maybe next year.
Yesterday was my first day off work. It was an early out day (to kick off Christmas break) for my children, so I knew that I had to tackle my day and use my time wisely.
It has been ages since I went for a run… well… solo. Atleast it felt like it. Running once a week doesn’t cut it for this running mama.
After the boys headed off on the bus for school, I bundled up and endured a quick 5K run.
It was a bitter cold run. It was 22 degrees. I had to dig out my cold weather running gear (many things I couldn’t find).
I grabbed my fleece lined tights and shirt, ASICS jacket and a hat with visor and headed out. I opted to run to the trail near my house.
Once I got going my legs picked up the pace and it felt great. I am not sure if my body kept going because it was so cold, or if it was in shock that we were actually running again. Ha!
It was so cold that my quads were cold as I ran. Thankfully it was doable and my run was a quick out and back.
I forgot how effective a run (no matter how quick, long, fast or slow) can be for clearing your head. My head was a jumbled mess thinking of things that were beyond my control.
Deep breaths and taking in the moment around me… I was able to clear my head and find me again.
I think it helps when you need to watch for ice patches along the trail… always be present.
Even though my run was quick and the temperature was cold… it was a beautiful run. I need to make this a priority again and not let life take this happy place from me.
I either need to embrace running in the cold, in the dark, with kids… or suck it up and buy a treadmill. All of which are totally doable and a possibility. I just realized yet again, after this run… that I need to run. Running is a part of me… it helps me find me… it brings me back to my state of calm.
My first run in a long time was a good one. I think I need to begin back at the basics with a Couch to 5K training plan. No distance races in the immediate future for me… just yet. I need to make running, strength training, and healthy eating a priority again. Time to switch gears back to running Rachel versus teacher lady.
Janelle @ Run With No Regrets says
What a beautiful run. It was pretty cold out when I ran on Saturday morning, but it’s such a great way to clear your mind and I really missed being out there!
Elle says
Yeah, running in cold weather can be dangerous… watch out for those icy patches!
Amy @ Will Run For Ice Cream says
Nice run! Yeah, I ran Sunday and the wind chill was 16. My quads never warmed up! But I love running when there is snow. I’m not a big fan of running in the cold, but I’ll run when it’s snowy 🙂
Deborah @ Confessions of a Mother Runner says
I agree a run no matter how short is a great way to clear your head and give you some energy. We have not had to deal with the cold temps much yet in DC but I know it’s coming
Becki S says
Brr! And isn’t it amazing how quickly a work out or run can turn everything around?! Glad you had some good you time.
Nicole @ Fitful Focus says
The first run back after a break is usually so amazing and therapeutic! It just started getting chilly here in NY over the weekend, but it’s going to be close to 70 on Christmas! Unheard of!
Wendy@Taking the Long Way Home says
It was really cold when I ran on Saturday– 16F when I headed out! So cold and I’m so not used to it!
Sue @ This Mama Runs for Cupcakes says
Yay Rachel!! There is nothing like that run …..I haven’t had a run like that in a while and I need it badly too. I’m so used to running with people that I find myself getting scared to run alone. I need to get over that and just run and be!!
Sandra Laflamme says
I definitely miss teaching sometimes too! I used to be a first grade teacher and oh how I loved my students! Such a fun age! Happy to see you back at running! It has been so warm on the east coast that I am dreading the freezing cold quad thing. I guess its time to bundle up!
Natalie says
Looks like you had such a beautiful and peaceful run!! I think cold winter running makes you stronger!! 🙂 So glad you are back to running again and enjoy your break!
jill conyers says
Nothing compares to a first run back. Like you said, a little reminder that we NEED to run. It’s in the 60s here. Very strange mentally but I’m not complaining.
Carmy says
Your run sounded so cold! And you weren’t wearing gloves in your pic! Were gloves one of the things you couldn’t find? I got smacked by the sudden cold (went from shorts to legging overnight!) and couldn’t find my gloves!