Locomotion

It was a real treat to have A's mom visit this weekend. She came for three luscious days to drink in our wonderful Birdiegirl - who of course, has Granny wrapped around her wee finger. As a result of Granny's visit, A and I went out for our first time without the babe.

A had been making subtle suggestions to get out sans Birdie prior to Granny's arrival. I responded with agreeable mumbles although never really processed the idea nor committed to it entirely. Maybe it's strange for some to hear, but I simply had no burning desire to get out, feeling completely content to hang as a family since she's arrived on the scene. Okay, maybe there were a few occasions in which I'd long to go out with a friend for coffee or to sit at a pub without any limitations. When Granny arrived, I was just happy to have her around to chat with, watch her enjoy Birdie and alleviate some of the responsibility of caring for her.

On day three of Granny's visit, A mentioned it again that we could get out for a short date. Granny was certainly up to the task and so, we did it. As soon as we descended the stairs of our place, I realized I was excited to be alone with my hunny. We walked down to our favourite spot and I felt really light.

I like being with my husband alone, my best friend. I like that we still feel like us. I like that we couldn't help talking about Birdie throughout our date. I like that we were without the preoccupation of what Birdie needed at every moment. I like that we did something we like to do. I like being a wife to A.

Truly, I love my life.

Throughout my pregnancy, I received my monthly subscription to Runner's World magazine. I stored them away since I made a decision not to run through this pregnancy and instead focused on yoga and walking. I've begun to dig into that pile of mags since I'm starting fresh on the running thing.

One columnist that I read and enjoy in every issue is John "The Penguin" Bingham. He writes from the perspective that for a runner, it's more important to run than anything else. Race results, gear and other things are not what matter. The November issue was exactly what I needed since I resumed my running post-partum. He included an article titled "I am not a jogger" in which he lists the reasons why he runs. I could relate to several of these points. Briefly, and to quote:

I am a runner because I know what effort feels like, and I embrace it. I know when I'm pushing the olimits of my comfort and why I'm doing it. I know that heavy breathing and an accelerated heart rate - things I once avoided - are necessary if I want to be a better runner.

I am a runner because I run. Not because I run fast. Not because I run far.

There are several other points, many of which I relate to. I like the simplicity of the Penguin's running mantra.

I can think of an unmentioned reason that I run, which is that it requires little to no gear. Sure, there's something to be said for having skookum shoes and techy tops. That said, it's still just clothing. If I want to run, I don't need anything except sneaks. Come to think of it, the runs I'm doing lately involve the clothes that used to be too big on me that fit nicely right now (insert mild 'grrr' here).

Thanks for the support, Mr. Penguin. And yes, I will 'waddle on'.

It was just a year ago that Birdie was conceived. It's hard to believe that she was just beginning, especially since she's here and is a massive (despite her wee-ness) part of our lives. I know, I know, that's what everyone says when they've had a baby..., "You just can't imagine life without her, right?" Well, I wouldn't go so far as to say that. Maybe because I remember sleeping as long as I wanted, going out whenever I wanted and exercising whenever I wanted and... I could go on.

Ah, I'm not complaining, just being real.

Recently, we ventured to Tofino. I would suggest it was our first family vacation. Our trip to the prairies early on in Birdie's life was to visit with family and friends not to get away. The Tofino outing was delightful, particularly since we had (*gulp* in embarrassment) never stayed on the westernmost edge of our beautiful province before. We lodged at a wonderful spot called Ocean Village Beach Resort and met up with old friends there.


Tofino is undoubtedly a spiritual place; A put it well, "Being here is good for my soul". The setting facilitated personal reflection and an appreciation of life. Being there with A and Birdie, along with our friends, reminded me what a rich life I have. Birdie didn't love the ocean wind in her face, but she did like the cozy naps in the sling under my jacket or A's hoodie; which, truthfully, we loved too. The food tasted extra good and the bed was extra comfortable.


On both nights we were in Tofino, the moon was full and the weather was absolutely clear. As a result, I might have to say that my favourite part of the trip was when Birdie was chirping for milk in the middle of the night. Huh - you say? I fed her, watching the white waves crash in on the shore from the couch, absolutely bright, crisp and clear. The scene was glorious. On once occasion in the middle of the night, I fed her, put her to sleep and then snuck out for more of the dreamy ocean experience. No need for flashlights to drink in this scene - just me, the ocean and the moon. Thanks, Birdie.

Sure, it's not easy doing a vacation with a new baby, but it's not hard either.