Back up and running (literally!)

I've been on a bit of a fitness hiatus lately.  I've actually been on hiatus from a lot of things lately.  I've been self absorbed with the stress and busyness of life.  I've learned a lot about myself during this time - when I feel up to a 'deeper' post maybe I'll share.

Back to my fitness hiatus.  I've been working out here and there but I really haven't stuck to a schedule for a good six weeks.  For the last two weeks I haven't been eating well either.  I had already been planning to get back in the saddle this week - and then I went bra shopping this afternoon.  Let's just say that seeing my scantily clad torso (I was bra shopping - remember?) reflected back at me in the dressing room mirror did nothing to for my self esteem.  It did however, do everything to get me excited about getting back up and running this week. 

In fact, I just signed up for my next race - The Running Opener - which will take place on Saturday, April 3rd.  I'm especially looking forward to this race because it will be at Lake Phalen.  I've considered running around Lake Phalen many times but given the frequency with which runners get mugged and assaulted in this location I've thought it wise to stay away.  I'm thinking the race officials, volunteers and 500 other runners will increase the safety factor to an acceptable level - I'm nothing if not logical. 

So what do you say - do you want to join me?  It's not too late to sign up - you can even sign up on race day.  There's a 5K and a 10K race - and a 1K Bunny Fun Run for the kiddos.  You can walk or run so anyone can participate.  Let me know if you sign up or decide to come out to cheer me on.

Happy running!

Introducing....

Anaka Laurel Esslinger
Saturday, March 13th at 4:30 AM
6 lbs. 14.8 oz.
19 3/4 in. (length)
13 1/2 in. (head)
Absolutely beautiful in every possible way.

But don't take my word for it.

The wait is over!

There simply are not words do describe the immense JOY in my heart right now!  It is 3:12 AM on Saturday, March 13th and I have just been told that my sweet baby niece is on her way!  I can't stop smiling!  It is all I can do to not publish this post and share my joy with the world this very moment but I'll wait until I get the OK from my sister. 

Is it even possible to convey how much love I feel for this baby who I will meet for the very first time in a few short hours?  It really isn't.  I am certain that only God can love her more.  Others will think that surely her parents and brothers and grandparents love her more than her aunt loves her but they will be wrong.  I love her as much as anyone on earth is capable of loving her - there is literally nothing I wouldn't do for her - nothing.  I'm not saying that I love this sweet child more than her parents, or brothers or grandparents do - but that I love her just as much.  There's no need to compete for the title of 'The One Who Loves the Most' - we will all gladly share it.

I am anxiously awaiting the next phone call declaring - she's here!  What is her name?  How much does she weigh?  10 fingers?  10 toes?  Is she wearing the hat I gave her?  Send pictures!  DH wants me to try to get some sleep but there is seriously no way I will be able to sleep until I hear that she is with us - safe and sound in her mother's arms and ready for me to meet her.  And let's face it - after I hear that I wont be able to sleep either.  I would love to be in my car right now driving to the hospital but, as luck would have it, Dash has an appointment for a desperately needed haircut at 7:00 AM and so the ridiculously mundane tasks of day-to-day life will dictate exactly when I lay my eyes on our new love and snuggle her close to me for the first time.

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It's 8:20 AM now - I got the call I was waiting for around 5:30.  She's beautiful (so I hear - no pictures yet) and I can't wait to see her.  Dash is at the groomers and I just got back from a run.  My camera batteries are charging and I've been smiling since 3:12 AM this morning!     

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It's 10:00 AM now and we are leaving to meet our niece!  Can't wait to post this any longer (even without the official OK from my sister).  I'll post pictures when I get back!