Brought to you by the letter "S"

Since yesterday's note was brought to you by the letter "F", I figured that today we would go with something a little more tame. Like "S."

S for smooth.

S for steady.

S for strong.

S for smart.

This is a good letter, one that sums up (ha!) my thinking now. I'm feeling it. Feeling things click back into place. A great run last night was smooth and steady. My heart rate was in a lovely Z2 and my spirits were high. Without ipod or partner to distract, I spent the whole run reflecting on my recent funk and how I'm going to respond. Because that's the deal, right? It's not about what's thrown at you, it's about how you respond. And then, this morning's swim was another pocket of time reminding me that I have a very solid level of fitness and my improvements, hard-won over time, continue to live in my bones and muscles. Feeling a bit more integrated now.

I'm shooting for doing this the right way the first time. Yesterday's rant may seem like a little self-serving reproval or some immodest hair shirt. Really, I just truly dislike regrets and I really don't want any regrets at the end of this -- like I should have done more arm work or I should have braved the solo century earlier. I just hate regrets. I learned from my mother's death when I was so young that regrets are more permanent, more indelible, than any other emotional experience. Joy leaves a fading glow and fuzzy, warm memories. Regret leaves a golf divot in your emotional history.

I can't avoid all golf divots, but I can avoid many. This being one.

So, smooth and steady. Strong and smart.

SamIam...I may just feel a mantra coming on!