Almost every runner I know has difficultly taking time off from their workouts. I know that often times when I take a rest I am thinking: “If I take time off I will lose something.” My body, strength or mind will diminish and it will be even more difficult to get that back if I stop. Perhaps I am unconsciously thinking “everything is out of control around me, but I can control one thing….running.” Whatever the reasons, even elite athletes will tell you that recovery is a huge part of overall performance.
I have learned this in my running, many of my experienced runner friends, have reinforced this in me, and, finally, after a few years of overtraining and injury I get it that I need to recover and rest between difficult workouts and races. Everyone is different and requires a different amount of rest but we all need down time. If I put in too many miles in a week, my body begins to break down not build up. Parenting is no different, although I am still learning in this department. We all need breaks if we put in too much, the quality of our parenting diminishes. We become tired and impatient.
This week I took a much needed few days away from my life to meet my 69 year old father Tim Welch in Chicago.
It was just the two of us, and, I have to say, not only did I come home feeling refreshed, happier, and more patient but I have added a whole new layer of love for my little nippers (which I did not think possible, as I adore them as much as a mother can) Initially, it was very difficult for me to leave my tearful kids at the airport, but this trip was planned several months ago and once I got there I was good plus my children were with their awesome Daddy Rob McClellan. My Old Man and I had so much fun! Here’s some pics from the trip:
