Let's Talk Sidewalk Etiquette

What a beautiful day to go for a walk or run.  #C25K.  As the weather gets nicer here in Northern Maine we will see more people using the sidewalks.  I saw more people today than I have yet this spring.  I'm all about getting out and getting exercise and fresh air, but we need to stay safe.

This is my proposal:  when you see someone coming towards you on the sidewalk we must abide by the social distancing guidelines to stay 6 feet apart.  Some of these sidewalks are pretty narrow and almost impossible to spread out that far so someone has to jump off to the road briefly.  I never mind moving but don't always feel safe running with traffic.  #donttextanddrive So, if you're walking with traffic, take the responsibility, please, to be the one to make room for the other person. It only makes sense to me.  You should always walk toward traffic if you're on the road.  However,  if you're pushing a stroller, wheelchair, or just walking with kids, I'm moving for you no matter what direction I'm headed, just so you know.

Now I know it's not always safe to run or walk on the side of the road,  I've been to South Florida.  But do the best you can.  We all need to stay safe and do our part for ourselves and each other.  Abide by the guidelines and #bedkindtooneanother

Who's in?

Singing While Running Is Not An Option

I'm writing this as soon as I returned from my #C25K walk/run as the feelings are fresh, the best time to write for me.  It was a particularly hard day running today. After two days off, getting back out there was tough.  Usually, I'm singing along during the walking phases, knowing no one can hear me, but today it wasn't happening. Instead, I took the opportunity to focus on my breathing, in and out, in and out. Sometimes that's all we can do is breathe.

The good news is, I completed the level, although exhausted, and I'm still standing (hope). I am determined to keep going and maybe by fall will be able to cross a 5K off my bucket list (hope).
I've really never been a runner but once upon a time I did engage in every possible sport possible, so there it is (hope).

Instead of making my own kind of music today, I breathed.  You don't have to start running but find a way to make your own kind of music (and enjoy a song from my playlist in the attached video). Remember, there's always hope, so hang in there.

Stay Inside But Go Outside

     It can be a little daunting to know just what to do during these times of COVID-19, but for your own mental health, GO OUTSIDE!  Today was a perfect day to go for a walk/run #C25K, around the "neighborhood" and that's just what I did. Fresh air, sunshine and physical activity are what a lot of us need right now to maintain our physical and mental health.  It takes everything I have some days to get my act together and move (definitely a difficult road),  but I know I will feel so much better later.  We've got this!  Find your running shoes, put them on and go for a walk. Listen to music, it truly does help uplift your mood and give you energy to keep going.  
    I've also noticed that although there aren't many people out walking, when I do meet someone on my walk, we totally abide by the 6 foot rule with one of us moving off the sidewalk, but always make a connection with a wave or a smile.  We need connection and although it's brief, it's nice to see another human being and have a human interaction.   

    Can't say it enough.  When you're feeling like you can't take it anymore, force that physical activity and just breathe.  Oh, and if that's not working, don't be afraid to ask for help.  It's okay, and I'm here for you. 

#caminobufffiveyearslater

#caminobuff2015