Agains

I went running again today. That means it was less than 80 degrees after I woke up. Those two things make me really happy. Well, not running itself, but having gone running. I was thinking as I ran, because I wasn't finding anything I liked on the MP3 player, and I realized something. I have never been in shape. I imagine many people who see me running with a stroller guess I'm getting in shape again after having a baby. Not so. There have been times in my life when I did 30 minutes of aerobic exercise 5 days a week, but I've never been able to climb stairs without being winded. Once in my life I ran a whole mile without stopping to walk. I did so, not because my friend and I promised each other we would, which we did, but so that I could get higher than a D on the running test. It took me about 16 minutes, but I did it. However, the grade was highly motivating because I had gotten D's on several other fitness tests in that PE class. I think it's stupid that gym class is what prevented me from having straight A's all through middle school.

On the other hand, I sure wish I had been in shape sometime so that I would know what it's like and could use that to motivate me to continue this tortuous running routine. Once upon a time I was 20 pounds lighter and much thinner than I am now, but I've come to the conclusion that after you have a baby, you never look like you're a junior in high school again. Ever.

I was reading Kevin's journal to see our courtship through his perspective, and something very strange happened. Upon reading about him training to run his first 5K, a very small desire arose in me to do the same thing. Now, I'll have to work approximately 28 times harder than he did to work up to that, he only ran a few times and then ran a 5K. I'll probably have to work hard for the next 6 months or so to be ready. I'm just hoping I don't lose the desire before then. Who plans races during the summer anyway? Who in their right mind runs 5k in 90 degree weather? I'd much rather run in the winter.

I do think it's important for me to get in shape, whether I run a 5k or not. (Why on earth would I pay to run a 5K? I'm still working on building my teeny tiny desire, as you can see.) I'm realizing more and more that my body is a very precious gift from my God and my mother, and to show my gratitude to them it's important that I take good care of it. It's important to my mother that I wear blush. Haha. My Heavenly Father has higher standards of stewardship, namely the Word of Wisdom. Until I can "walk and not be weary and run and not faint" I'm afraid I'm not doing as much as I should to take care of the unique creation that is my body. Plus it'll be easier to show gratitude if my body looks like it did when I was a junior in high school. ;)

On a completely different topic (this blog is becoming more and more my journal rather than actual writing) yesterday in Relief Society the teacher started the tradition where someone gives a Book of Mormon away every week. I have never, ever volunteered, but I did yesterday. I knew I needed to. I have given a few Books of Mormon away before, but I've always been quite a wuss about it. When I think logically, I don't really understand why I get so nervous about doing it. It shouldn't make me nervous to share one of my favorite books, something that has changed my life for the better, helped me get through tough times, and feel the love of Jesus Christ for me personally and for all of his children with people that I love. I think it's one of the major weaknesses in our culture that speaking about religion is a faux pas. People should be able to talk about something so important to so many. It shouldn't be construed as offensive or overbearing to share what makes you happy. But aside from my culture, I shouldn't feel that way. So, I'm going to get over my own weakness and open up my heart to show someone what brings me joy. It would make it easier if you left a comment that you want it. It is free. :)

And, now the part you endured all the rest for: