Easy does it

I'm well on my way to running again...but I'm still not quite there yet. Instead, I've been doing a little of everything else to build my strength back up. And gradually -- very gradually -- I'm getting better.

I flail about in the pool in my fancy new swim cap from That Pink Girl.

I elliptical {or whatever the verb is}, which has been surprisingly fun. That's how desperate I am to run. Anything that remotely resembles running will do just fine. Although I've also been surprised at how weak my right leg is. My first day on the elliptical, my right quad, glute and calf were BURNING in just a couple of minutes. I've lost so much strength, but I'm slowly working to get it back.

I've been biking on actual trails, not just on my deck, and it's been WONDERFUL to see my running routes again. 6 months was too long to stay away. Following those paths through my favorite little town in the world is like seeing an old friend.

Best of all, I've been kayaking! It's wicked hot, even on the water, but it's fantastic exercise and so peaceful. It is most definitely one of my favorite things about summer.

Becoming active again is tough. I hurt all over, and I'm exhausted, but I'm so ready to get back in shape, feel good about myself again and have the strength to do the things I enjoy. I'm in no hurry to jump back into running because I'm trying to be kind to my bones and make sure I'm not out for another 6 months. So I'm taking it easy, starting slow and mixing up my routine so I don't put too much stress on one muscle group. But a teensy part of me hopes the next time you hear from me, I will have put a mile or two on my running shoes!