Fun Run

Everyone says motherhood changes you.  I honestly haven't felt much different except for the new bags under my eyes and expanded waistline.  But this weekend it hit me like a ton a bricks


Sunday was our first race together. I got up early and started my pre-race ritual - vitamin, oatmeal, and lube in all the right places.  Got the kiddo ready and headed downtown to the race start.  Drove past my old apartment and recalled when I use to "walk" to this race.  As I turned the corner to park the car in my super secret free parking spot, I got a rush of nerves.  Yes, I had the pre-race jitters.  We unpacked and I hurried over to the start line.  In typical Amber fashion I was an hour early for the race; need to mentally prepare. Because I had a jog stroller, I was forced to be in the back.  We literally were the last people to cross the start line.  No worries, I can catch all those non-stroller pushing people.  We weaved and bumped a few people along the way.

A friend of mine was kind enough to stay with me and help with stroller navigation.  She was great and I loved our conversation.  One thing she said stopped me in my tracks. My friend is a new mom and she pointed out that her baby has forced her to slow down.  No longer are we in the second or third wave competing for time.  We are now at the back of the pack in the "fun run" division. 

Joe has taught me how to make my life a daily fun run.  At first I was overly concerned with him lagging behind the other babies.  Now I know that he’ll go at his own pace and that’s the perfect pace.  I’m so proud of my little boy and his first 10k. As my friend said, “guess that makes it a PR.”

Baby Joe at the Cap 10k