I run.
I run because it makes me feel strong.
I run to keep my size 6 figure.
I run because it’s cheaper than a gym membership.
I run to release stress.
I run to earn cheesy t-shirts, fun goodie bags, and cool medals.
…and today…
I ran to set a good example for my kids.
My kids are used to my running antics. I slink around the house in the wee hours of the early morning, assemble my running gear and quietly slip out of the house. Occasionally my oldest daughter, 8, will catch a glimpse of me on her way to the bathroom. I’m greeted by a drowsy “Hey Mom,” and a lazy wave as she wraps up and shuffles back to bed. Sometimes she can’t go back to sleep, so when I return an hour later I’m greeted by a more enthusiastic, “Hey Mom! How was your run?”
Last night, my daughter asked if she could join me on one of my early morning runs. Overhearing our plans, my 6 year old and 3 year old asked if they could come too.
“I leave early you guys. Like 5:15 am. Because it gets so hot here.”
Oh. (pause)
“But, I’ll leave a little later for you. We’ll leave at 6:30 am. That means up by 6. And that’s the latest. It’ll already be 85 by then.”
OK!
Excited for a run with mom, the kids became a flurry of activity and prepared to run the next morning by getting their workout clothes, socks and shoes ready. My 3 year old son even dug up his Go Diego Go backpack and stocked it with a water bottle, sunblock and a dry washcloth, “To wipe your sweat Mommy.” Nice.
As promised, I woke the kids up at 6 am. Surprisingly, they popped up, got dressed and were ready to go within 15 minutes. We headed out.
The girls ran, ‘Lil Man biked and I jogged.
We went exactly 0.9 miles to the neighborhood AJ’s Fine Food.
We enjoyed a nice breakfast.
He says, “Mommy. I think we should call Daddy to pick us up.”
They refreshed in the misters before we embarked on the 0.9 mile trek back home. Of course, one didn’t want her hair to get frizzy. I know the feeling. We avoid misters.
The last quarter-mile was tough for the girls. ‘Lil Man was encouraging though, “Oh c’mon guys. See?! I’m doing it!” Of course, he’s on a bike and the girls are on foot.
We made it home – sweaty, rosy and grateful for a great early morning together.
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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
What an amazing post!! I smiled as I read it. I too run daily (I am training for a 10K in the fall). I’ve taken my 9yo a few times with me on a late run (8pm) and we have a ball doing it. Your post just encouraged me to do it more often.
Thanks
BTW your children are beautiful!
I love the comment about getting dad to pick your group up and drive you home. You’re being a great role model. I know when kids tag along for a workout, it’s meaning changes in a good way, but you don’t necessarily get much exercise.