Happy birthday to the #1 reason I run

11 years ago, my life changed in ways I never knew were possible.

Jones’ entry into our lives was a much anticipated and wanted event, but Jones didn’t come alone.  He brought along some baggage in the form of sleepless nights, breastfeeding difficulties, food allergies, and postpartum depression.

It was a beautiful autumn, at least as far as the pictures show.

But for me, it was dark.  I remember it as a constantly grey time.  I spent a lot of time sitting on the couch, crying. I couldn’t see past the exhaustion and incredible neediness that came along with this wonderful addition to our family.

Enter running.  One slow mile showed me an inkling of light.  And slowly, I started running back to myself.  Within a few weeks, I was smiling again.  Crying was no longer an hourly event or even a daily occurrence. Slowly but surely, running gave my son the gift of a happy mom.

11 years later, we’ve had our challenges.  But whenever it gets to be too much, I run.  It centers me.  It gives me the patience I need to handle everything that comes my way.  As we enter the “tween” years, I know there will continue to be challenges.  And I will continue to run.

Happy Birthday, Jones.

Thank you for making me a mom. And a runner.