Chemical Transformation

As I awaken, a quick survey of my body reveals that all systems are go for my workout this morning. I'm delighted to be healthy when both my son and daughter have caught the season's hottest virus. Still, I'm not exactly chomping at the bit to trot around Golden Gate Park.

8:35 am - At the park, gear on, and the car is parked. I know there's no way out at this point, but nevertheless I happy to linger by carefully applying sunscreen on this thoroughly overcast day.

The weather is terrific for a run. A balmy 55 degrees, almost no wind. It's a good start, but it still seems an awfully long way around the park. I anticipate pain. I'm grumpy. I keep running.

Years ago I was sharing my enthusiasm for running with an acquaintance. I think his name was Ebenezer. I vividly remember him pronouncing that he had never seen a runner who look like he was enjoying himself. They all seemed so miserable, and this gentleman would never run until he saw a runner who looked happy.

Determined to prove him wrong, I resolved to always look like I was having a good time. This can require some effort, particularly during the first 20 minutes of just about every run, but I persevere. I make a point of smiling to those I pass, and thanking motorists for yielding to my cadence.

Today I grinned at a woman and her dog as we passed, and she returned a genuine, friendly smile. There's something about exchanging genuine smiles with a stranger that reassures my faith in all of humanity. If a stranger can smile at me for no particular reason, the world must be a pretty decent place.

Inspired by her warmth, I resolve to abandon my internal grumbling in favor of an ode to running. I first remind myself how grateful I am to be running. After 4.5 years of Chronic Fatigue, just being out there is a real treat. Then I notice the soft path, the beautiful trees, and the fresh smells of nature around me. I notice how great it feels to have a healthy, fit body that moves.

Coincidentally, as I was revelling in my ode, I feel a burst of energy quicken my pace. The serotonin is officially flowing, and I am really feeling terrific. My smile become even more genuine.

Yes, Mr. Scrooge, I do love to run.

7:15 am - my usual oatmeal. I'm not super hungry. It's that extra bowl of cereal last night. That's probably what fueled my run this morning, now that I think about it.

12:15 pm - Peasant Pie and soup. I'm still hungry, so 1/4 of a pear, and well, a small piece of pound cake with yogurt. Definitely gratuitous, but, probably because of the time of the month, I'm feeling less inclined toward severe hunger in the afternoon. I'd rather eat this now and postpone hunger until dinner time.

8:00 pm - it worked. I'm really hungry and have to munch on some carrots as I prepare dinner. 1 formerly frozen chicken burrito, salad, and of course, a kiddie bowl of organic whole wheat macaroni and cheese that my son abandoned.

I'm feeling good, but there's still an edge of hunger that, again, (blame it on the moon), I have less tolerance for. 2 small bowls of cereal take care of the problem, and I'm happy for it.