It’s been 3 months since I last gave you an update on my running so just in case you thought I forgot…
Things have improved slightly and I say slightly because there have been far too many days of no running which is not good, especially around this time of year with all the festivities and celebrations with family and friends.
Dogs, oh give me strength, are still a problem. I do not understand what the problem with some dog owners is. I know I get all frothy about dogs and carry on a bit but it really is a problem. I recently rang an owner after having nearly been attacked by his dogs 3 times! The last time it happened his labrador chased after me like a rabid monster – I stopped dead in my tracks and put my arms up in the air with a questioning gesture at the owner as he casually stood in his driveway and watched his dog nearly knock me off my feet. I honestly believe he found it amusing. I was petrified as I am inherently scarred of dogs I do not know. He claims they have never bitten anyone before or is it yet!
Interestingly, I spoke with a doctor and he said considering my heart condition, he is amazed I am running at all. Seeing as my pulmonary stenosis (murmur) which I was born with is mild I thought it would not affect my running at all but clearly it must so I don’t have to beat myself up about my improvement or lack thereof any more. Well it’s a great “legitimate” excuse.
A quick medical lesson…

Image sourced from Google
Pulmonary (valve) stenosis is a condition in which a deformity on or near your pulmonary valve, the valve that influences the blood flow from your heart to your lungs, slows the blood flow. Adults occasionally have the condition as a complication of another illness, but mostly, pulmonary valve stenosis develops before birth as a congenital heart defect.
Medical lesson over.
Other than that, I am enjoying my running when I can get out and have changed my route slightly to avoid as many dogs are possible.
Has your exercise regime also taken a knock this festive season?
Just in case I don’t chat with you all before Christmas, let me wish you all a wonderful, blessed and happy festive season with my annual Christmas message:
What is Christmas?
It is tenderness for the past,
courage for the present,
hope for the future.
It is a fervent wish
that every cup may overflow
with blessings rich and eternal,
and that every path may lead to peace.
– Agnes M. Pahro