It’s been a long time since I’ve done an "exercise." One of those real ones with competitions, good things for your health, sweating, and all that. I’ve dabbled in walking when I’ve felt good enough over the last three and 1/2 years, but it’s been a long time since I’ve been able to dedicate a few calories to something other than keeping my kids alive.

Addison’s respiratory problems, his surgery and my awful, awful pregnancy have burned enough calories for three people.* Addison has slept now 12 nights in a row. He sputters and coughs once in awhile, so I cannot say I’ve lulled away each night in a deep stupor, but compared to the up and down routine of keeping a child breathing at night, this is nothing short of a miracle. I now would like to breath oxygen deeply because I am taking in the morning air while trotting around the lake not refilling the vaporizer with more baking soda and water.

Running has never been a strong point. I’ve wrestled with lots of athletics and have probably done every "new" exercise invented: boxing, aerobics, laps, sprints, weight lifting, stairs, yoga, sit ups, pull ups, and even dancing while stepping up on that box thing (what was that?)

The last real running I did was probably 15 years ago. It was a 5k. I walked the last K. If I can get my body to cooperate, it makes sense for my budget and time. I can do it just about anywhere, and it really only takes a pair of good shoes. And the grace of God so I don’t keel over with the ducks. I’ll keep you posted.

*And then there’s the stress diet called: divorce.