Once the Couch to 5K program was over, it was over. It was up to each one of us as to whether we were going to continue any kind of running or exercise regimen.
One of the ladies in the group, Marie, wanted to continue to run regularly, so several of us continued to meet once a week. We met on Tuesday nights and would run an out and back that was about a two and a half mile run. My daughter and I also started running together even though she runs at a much faster pace than I do. She literally ran circles around me.
We continued to run in the evening because that fit our schedule. As winter approached and Daylight Savings time came to an end, we began running in the dark. Darkness was what brought my running to and end the winter before. However, my daughter and Marie were determined that we were going to keep on keeping on, so we did.
We soon discovered how treacherous running on the sidewalks at night can be. If there was an uneven spot in the sidewalk, I would find it and trip. A few times my daughter caught me, a few times I fell palms down with my phone in my hand. After a few incidents, I was blessed with a running belt as a gift.
Running at night was almost like it’s own little sport with it’s own equipment. The year prior I had bought a reflective vest but hadn’t used it much. It was now a necessity for every run. I tried to wear bright-colored clothing along with a light–not only for my benefit, but for the benefit of oncoming traffic as well. I eventually fell and got scraped up enough times on the sidewalk, that I started running in the street to avoid injury.
In October we did the Pumpkin Run at a farm. It was my first off-road race, and it was tough going. It was still a fun day with perfect running weather.
October also brought us a new granddaughter, this one belonging to my son and his wife.
It had come to the point that my job was detrimental to my health. I gained a few pounds and was not feeling up to par. I left in the morning before anyone else was up, and often came home after dark when everyone was winding down for bed. I might as well have packed my bags and left for two days every week. It was adding a lot of stress to the family, and they weren’t handling it very well.
Worse yet, I watched the drivers. They were all battling diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, and the list goes on. Some were battling the physical that they’re required to take every two years. To sum things up, their job was killing them.
I took a weekend off in October so we could take a trip. My oldest daughter and granddaughter also went with us. It was five people and five tons of baby paraphernalia, but we had a great time. My daughter and I even did some hiking/walking on the trails where we stayed.
When we returned from our trip, I handed in my resignation. I agreed to stay until the end of November if they were willing to let me stay. I was very saddened because I liked my job and the people that I worked with. My reasons for leaving had nothing to do with the job, but 100% to do with my personal life.
In God I have put my trust, I shall not be afraid. What can man do to me? Psalm 56:11
LoriCamper.Com 
A very brave decision 👏🏻
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