Hey, its me! I’m still here.

I took a pause on my emails for a few weeks but don’t worry, I’m still around. I wanted to give you a personal update – something that’s been weighing on my heart (and my… well, my recovering knee!).

As some of you know, I have been working to get back to running after my meniscus tear in August. Well let’s just say its has been a sloooooow and steady climb. Some days, I feel like I’m making real progress. My strength training and cross-training is for the most part going well. I am gradually lifting heavier. And I even invested in an airbike (its a butt kicker!). Some days I feels amazing and other days? Let’s just say the patience muscle gets a serious workout!

In the countless hours I’ve spent rebuilding (rowing, biking, lifting) I’ve taken to watching YouTube videos of trail runners conquering massive distances. It keeps that dream alive and that familiar feeling of conquering the trail and my mind and the sweet victory of the finish line. You might think watching those videos would chip away at my outlook but in fact watching others conquer miles, their minds and the mountains is simply a reminder of what the human body and spirit are capable of. It also reminds me that if they can run 200 miles I can suck it up and spend 30 minutes or more my rower!

The reality is, my runs right now look less like conquering mountains (although I did conquer hiking up Camelback Mt. over spring break!) and more like very short, slow slogs. Distances that, at one time, I wouldn’t have bothered lacing up my running shoes for. Anything 3 miles or less seemed like not a good use of my time when I could go 5 or 6. Now… I am just thankful I can run 2. Funny how perspective changes when the threat of losing it all together looms.

I have had several moments in the past months were my knee felt okay initially, and that familiar joy of movement started to bubble up. I’d text Tom about how good I felt. Excited that I was over the hump. But then, later that day or the next, I’d feel that familiar little twinge. Not a setback, but a clear reminder that I need to honor this healing process, even when my mind is screaming to go faster and farther.

It’s been a lesson in truly listening to my body, which, as many of you know, is a practice in itself, especially as I also navigate the ever-shifting tides of perimenopause. There are days when fatigue hits harder, and recovery feels like it takes twice as long. It's all connected, isn't it? This journey back to running isn't just about the knee; it's about understanding and accepting where my body is now, in this season of life.

Honestly, there have been moments of frustration. But then I remind myself of how far I've come since August, the dedication I've put into my recovery, and the unwavering desire I still hold. It’s not a race (pun intended!), but a gradual return to something I deeply love.

So, that’s where I’m at on the running front. It’s a work in progress, filled with small victories and gentle reminders to be kind to myself. And just like this journey, life lately has been a mix of embracing the slow moments and finding joy in the little things.

What about you? What kind of journeys – physical, emotional, or otherwise – are you navigating right now? I’d love to hear from you.

Wishing you a week filled with grace and gentle progress, whatever that looks like for you.

From my heart to yours,

Keli💚