Oh, Yes I Did

I sure did go to the track this morning at 5:30. I really want to say "5:30 AM" just for emphasis here, because, kids, that is early.

My friend Danna inspired (suckered) me to revive my winter plans to take up jogging and join the Women Run Jonesboro training group. Essentially, they are doing the Couch-to-5K plan that I have attempted about 3 times before and quit. But, BUT--they do it as a group. I would like to say that the group concept attracted me because of the accountability factor, but truthfully, it's because there's always someone to chat with (or complain to, whatever) while you jog. Even better is that Danna was there to chat with. We don't get to do that enough these days.

I have to say that I did actually find some pleasure in getting up while the house was still dark and quiet, getting dressed and slipping out the door. It felt good to be outside, even if the fresh air we inhaled was a mere 30 degrees. The birds started singing as the sky grew lighter and it reminded me that spring is just around the corner.

I really needed a fresh start today. Yesterday was so hard, and I couldn't even tell you why. Okay, yes I could: Toddler who wouldn't sleep at all the night before, plus tired Mama, plus toddler who wouldn't nap, plus much whining. And, just for fun, plus a load of snot. The thing is, as tough parenting days go, this one wasn't so bad. No one puked or bled or ate anything that comes in a child-proofed bottle. I just could not get myself under control. I could feel myself getting more and more angry and impatient until I had turned into one of those fat, hollering, foul-mouthed mothers on Dr Phil. It was horrible, and I was so glad to go to bed last night and put an end to the day. I closed my eyes thinking, "Your mercies are new every morning!" So when that alarm went off at 5:10, I didn't let out my ususal moan of dread but a sigh of relief.

Today is going to be a good day.