Friday, May 17, 2013

Reality Check

Today was a wonderful day! I am feeling renewed. Taking positive action does the trick every time. In order to face the adversity I wrote about yesterday, I saddled up and indulged in a little two wheeled therapy.


I was joined by my coach and two other triathletes for a planned 30 mile ride incorporating intervals.  When we started out I protested the added sprints claiming "I wasn't feeling it".  I was still feeling a bit down. I expected a pity party. My coach wasn't hearing it. She informed me that I'm doing the intervals like it or not. No pity party for Michelle. She reminded me that I had expressed to her just that morning that I wanted to replace my sadness with something uplifting, like a good workout.  Great...me and my big mouth.

You know what?  Turns out a good kick in the ass was just what I needed. It was a definite reality check. It works far better for me than hand holding. I was reminded that I'm stronger than I sometimes give myself credit for. A little sweat, adrenaline and pushing out of my comfort zone, and I was out of my funk.  I was back in control of me.


Not to mention a teensy bit spent.

I don't have to sit in my sadness. What I have to do is move. Literally and figuratively.  I know this, but it's so easy to forget and become complacent. That was so yesterday...this is today. I kicked complacency to the curb!  

We finished the hard work and relaxed into a steady pace (18mph) for the return trip. We engaged in laughter and conversation and I was reminded how very lucky I am. My life is filled with wonderful friends (who get me) old and new, a supportive family and so many blessings.  I get to work when I want and be free to indulge in my little cycling/triathlon obsession.  We chatted about our family, upcoming races and our plans for training. The smile returned to my face, my eyes twinkled (happiness or allergies?) and I felt like myself.  Happy.

The rest of the day was spent with my kids. I went shopping with my daughter and then we picked my son up from lacrosse practice.  It was peaceful enjoying their company on the drive home.  They were both in silly moods and we joked and laughed. Good stuff.


My daughter's surgery is scheduled for Monday, June 10.  I have pulled out of my first triathlon, which was slated for June 9 in Kansas. I need to be in Indianapolis. I am in acceptance, and this time the acceptance comes in the right way. She is my priority. It was a no brainer. We are very optimistic that all will go well.

We can easily get off our game from time to time. It's part of being human. For me, I just have to remember that when this happens I don't have to be so hard on myself. I need to alleviate stress by taking time to engage in an activity to get out of myself, such as cranking my bike to 26-30mph. The release of endorphins is a proven mood enhancer!  Then I need to relax.  Meditate. It's a balance.  I love to push my body to it's limits, yet know I must be careful with my soul.

As I lounge in bed writing, I feel that I am correctly placed on my proverbial teeter-totter today. My inside matches my outside, as it should.

I want to give  special shout out to my coach, Catherine. Her strength is to be admired and emulated, and being in her presence was just what I needed today.  Also to my good friends Lisa and Monika who are always there for me and to Marcy, who I got to know a little better today. You all brought sunshine to me today and reminded me that I'm amazing.  (If I do say so myself).



It's great to be back!
Peace, out




10 comments:

  1. It's good that Catherine your coach was there to give you that big push to continue as you don't want to go backwards Michelle. And I'm glad you just didn't give up but instead listened and ended up having a great time. Can you send Catherine my way as I need a little pick me up myself? Wish I could bike for miles and miles and get those cobwebs out of my head. I had to get off my bike in the middle of the road and push it uphill the other day as my legs were knackered from peddling :(

    I pray that all goes well with your daughter's surgery and that she makes a good recovery. She's got a brilliant mother and family with her.

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    1. Oh my goodness thank you RPD, that means a lot to me! Catherine was a Godsend the other day! I usually don't need a push, but did on Thursday and she gave me the nudge I needed That's what friends are for! They are also for support, and I really appreciate yours :)

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  2. You inspire me more and more every day Michelle and I feel I can do better just by reading your words. We do tend to be harder on ourselves than we would EVER be on someone else. Why is that?

    So glad you got out of the funk. Enjoy a glorious weekend!

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    1. Thank you Penny!!! Right back at you. You not only inspire me, but you make me laugh! And that is a wonderful quality :) I think most of us Moms are inherent people pleasers and tend to put ourselves last. We have to remember to be gentle with ourselves!

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  3. We are happy to have you back! All it took was taking a step back and looking at your situation from the outside. I told you that you had the answers all along. I will be sending good thoughts your way on June 10th! :)
    http://www.mondaysnugget.com/

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    1. Hey Lana!! Thank you sister. And thanks for the prayers! I will keep you all posted. I'm going into it expecting the best...positive thoughts all around. :)

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  4. Best of luck with your daughter's surgery, Michelle! Yes, I agree, there's nothing better than exercise to lift me out of a funk, and I never regret it afterwards.

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  5. Michelle, there are days I could use a good kick in the ass to get started too! Kicking complacency to the curb, I like that. Your daughter is very pretty; she looks just like you, great photo. All the best for your daughter's surgery and wishing her a speedy recovery. Sending lots of prayers and positive healing thoughts.

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    1. You are so sweet, and I am so appreciative of your support and prayers. Thank you!

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