Taking sensible steps

On my flight back from Dublin yesterday afternoon, I thought it was time to take stock. I’ve had a lot going on in my life these past few weeks, some of it quite challenging to deal with. And I looked through my calendar to see what I could step away from to simplify my life.

One item stood out from the others: this year’s Royal Parks half-marathon. Being ill for the past two weeks has left me a little behind in my training schedule. But even today, when I’m 80% better, I know it would be crazy to try running across London. I’m still coughing like a sailor and need some downtime.

Training for a half-marathon, no matter how enjoyable, is not downtime.

So I’ve decided to withdraw from the race, going against all my excitement and trying to be an adult for a change. It’s better for my health and will allow me to focus on the various other things that need my attention right now.

I’m consoling myself with the knowledge that there will be other races, probably in 2019. I’ll be well and fit again and the training I’ve done so far has not been wasted – it’s all helpful in my battle against the bulge that has settled in around my waist this year.

All the same, it feels a little bit like giving in. But something had to give and this was the low-hanging fruit on my schedule that just needed to go. I don’t want to wear myself into the ground and have a relapse when it comes to my epilepsy.

And now, having unpacked and repacked my suitcase, it’s time to fly back up to Scotland until Monday night.

No running, but lots of family time, some problem-solving and hopefully more sleep.

Now, why is that song from Frozen floating around in my head?

(Photo by Zoltan Tasi on Unsplash)