Two legs, two lungs, and one heart.

I couldn't resist posting this picture that Peter sent me while I was working at Frontrunners Sunday after Running Moms' fantastic run.

Of course it made me giggle, but it also made me think about the delicate balance Moms have to create and maintain in order to keep their families and themselves happy. Receiving this photo was timely, since Laura, Adrianne, Carey and I spent a good deal of our run that morning talking about this balance. We talked at length about how Moms feel guilt in a way that most Dads don't understand; it's not deliberate, they simply aren't wired the same way. 

But for me, I know that the time I spend away from my kids reminds me why I love to be with them, even when they drive me nuts. One day apart from them is enough to reiterate why there is nowhere on this planet I would rather be and no one I would rather spend my time with. ...Although an evening alone with my husband would be incredible.

Since Sonja and Haven were born, I've realized more and more that my happiness and satisfaction are directly tied to making sure I get out and do what makes me happy. In my case, my first choice is always running. 

Running allows me to think clearly, or more accurately, it forces me to stop thinking negatively. 

Running lets me focus on the purely physical; no decisions, no discussions, no responsibilities, just one foot in front of the other.

Running reminds me that the human body is a marvel. Even on my worst runs I am still grateful that these two legs, two lungs, and one heart can work together and get me to the finish in one piece. 

...and there is always another run another day to feel invincible and remind me why I love this sport so damn much.

Most importantly, the overall sense of well-being and contentedness after a run makes me a better Mom. The small victory of each run and each goal reached grounds me and gives me the perspective to be more patient and be an engaged listener for my kids. Don't get me wrong; I struggle mightily with the patience part, but without running, I would be a rudderless ship.

During our run Sunday, I said to the other Moms in the group, "What would I do without you guys??" And I meant it; thank you for being my sounding board and thank you for being such great listeners for me and every other Mom in the group. This group has become what I originally envisioned: running friends who happen to be Moms. It's been such a pleasure.