Carving out some 'me' time

Running gives mother of three the chance to get back in shape, as well as some time to herself.

By SUSANNA HARGREAVES

As a mother of three young children who works part time, I have struggled with my weight. I can no longer blame it on the baby weight, for my “baby” has just turned 3.

With a big sigh of disappointment and utter disgust, the self-realization hit when I tried to fit myself like a stuffed sausage into my summer shorts and button them. (God help me with trying on a bathing suit.)

I know some serious work and self-love needs to be done. The weather is agreeable now, and I am determined to begin running again.

Feeling a little overwhelmed, I wondered how would I find the time and energy to go running. Honestly, there is never enough time in a day to get everything done, but I really wanted to take this time for myself and feel like myself again.

I decided to set out with the easiest and most realistic goal, and that is to run a 3-mile race for a worthy cause every season to keep me in check. My belief is that signing up and paying for a race will put some added pressure on me.

To help inspire my new quest for a healthier me, I realized my tape-playing Walkman needed to be upgraded to an iPod. Proudly, this savvy high-tech momma created the most perfect running series of music. It starts with Abba, then segues into Moby, Enigma and some songs from the “Twilight” soundtrack. (All without the help of my teenage neighbor!)

I purchased some new comfortable sneakers, which strangely are a full size larger than my last pair. I also bought a couple of new running outfits.

Now, the only challenge is to get out of bed an hour before everyone wakes up in my house. I find it helpful to sleep in my workout clothes. This way, all I have to do is put on my sneakers in the morning, and I am out the door.

I have gone through my spurts of self-doubt, worrying if I can do this, and the guilt that I am being selfish for taking time for myself. I have not run a race since 2005. It really is easy to make excuses and there are plenty of other things to do, but seriously, there is nothing wrong with taking a half-hour a day for myself.

Running is healthy, inexpensive and peaceful. It is a wonderful uninterrupted time where I can process things that are bothering me. It helps me release stress, and I enjoy the endorphins that come with it. Also, no one is pecking me to death for a snack or toy.

It is just the beautiful open road and me. Nothing is holding me back but myself. Who cares if I am slow? I can do this. I can do anything. I am a mother of three.

Susanna Hargreaves lives in Hooksett. She is an occasional contributor to the NH Mirror.