Tired yet hopeful
Pops of color in Grand Rapids, hues of blue in Traverse City. Or, how to hang in there.
Last week was a whirlwind.
I might still be catching my breath, if this evening’s mini-meltdown in my kitchen is any indication of my attempt at recovering from the past several days. I’m OK, I am, but you know when things just catch up with you? That’s me, tonight.
Thankfully, two days into this extra-busy work week, I’m now comfy on our living room couch, my favorite plush blanket pulled over my legs and lap. Our two doxies, Junie and Dottie, are snuggled next to me while Ellie, our white Lab, lies on her bed a few steps away. Chill music — a Dave Matthews/Jack Johnson/Ray LaMontagne/The Head and the Heart/Natalie Merchant playlist on Spotify — soothes my nervous system this stormy Tuesday night.
I’ve also got a new book I recently cracked, along with a glass of wine, within arm’s reach. Just typing these words makes me exhale.
Thank goodness for a couple of memorable runs lately, too. These miles were especially meaningful for me. One run/walk took place in Grand Rapids, where I stayed for several nights at Emma’s place, and the other was here in Traverse City. Even though these two cities are just two hours apart, there was absolutely no snow in GR last week — flowers were pushing through the dirt on the street leading to Emma’s Heritage Hill rental! — while up north, in TC, ice chunks rolled in the waves reaching toward the East Grand Traverse Bay shoreline.
Both scenes were gorgeous, breathtaking even in their own ways. Both times, the temperature outside on the afternoons I laced up my running shoes and hit the pavement weren’t all that different (pretty chilly).
Both proved to be just what I needed.
I’ve come to realize that moving my body, particularly after using my mind to the hilt for work (I’m still very much getting used to my new position at the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, as exciting as it is) and also for life (family stuff, both everyday and new happenings), is essential to my mental well-being. Not to mention my physical state, which is probably an entirely other newsletter topic, thank you midlife.
I’m not sure what I would do without time spent outdoors, without moments meandering in nature and letting my feet take me where they want to go.
I guess this means that tomorrow I need to get out there. I think I will.
Tell me about one of your recent runs or outdoor adventures — did it leave you feeling hopeful? Have you had a mini-breakdown lately, or is it just me?
This short essay, originally posted on Michigan Runner Girl, the sister publication to Moving Through, is one I wanted to share with all of you.
In this series titled Moving Moments, I’ll be highlighting an outdoor adventure I’ve had, whether it be a run, hike, paddle, swim or bike. I’d love for you to subscribe! (This link will take you to Moving Through’s sister publication Michigan Runner Girl.)
I’m really looking forward to riding my road and mountain bikes soon, and as soon as I can, I will be trying to find time for some stand-up paddle boarding fun. I’d love to hear about your adventures, too — please leave a comment below about what you’re looking forward to.
See you back here soon, Moving Through travelers!
Just keep moving. 💙
-Heather
And of course I had to look and see what book it was that you are starting.... sounds wild! I'll have to check it out.... report back! Sitting and reading with a glass of wine would not bode well for my sleep... midlife.... ha!
It was so lovely to briefly see you in person last week - I, too, am exhausted after multiple long days of travel in a row. I feel like I need so much more recovery time in midlife, and movement, outdoors, is definitely a huge part of that recovery.
Also: "Tired Yet Hopeful" seems to sum up my entire existence lately, so thank you for that!