Where to begin? I just returned from Georgia and North Carolina where I spent a record (for me) 11 days on The Appalachian Trail. I am still carrying with me a feeling of peace. I haven't actually exercised in probably over a week. I got off the trail a week and a half ago. Then we spent a week in the mountains in NC. I did a little exercise there but not consistently.
I just arrived back in New Orleans last night. Today, I spent maybe an hour or an hour and a half straightening and starting the process of unpacking/laundry. I was struck by how much better I was able to manage those tasks today. I fully appreciate and embrace the simplicity with which I was able to straighten up the kitchen, make the bed, and straighten the living room. This isn't how it usually goes. I am usually accompanied by a panicked, anxious inner dialogue that tells me I am nothing, a failure, a terrible mother, that I am wasting my day, my life, my children's childhoods because I can't get it done immediately.
Today, it was hard to get started. I texted back and forth with a friend. I gave myself some deadlines, took a bath, made myself lunch, and finally started. However, I didn't feel like this task was a monumental task that represented me as a person and my failures or lack of failures.
I think the hiking, the week in the mountains, and all of the time spent outside doing what I love have really helped. REALLY helped.
Tonight, I am meeting Sparrow for a 6:30 PM LRC run. Hurray! Then tomorrow morning I am going to the early morning run that one of the groups has. I have never been to that group, but that won't stop me. Then November Project for Wednesday and Friday. Those are my goals. I will keep you posted after I achieve them.
See the Joy,
Katy (Trail Name: Fire Turtle)
