Filling the Void...

As I was walking on the treadmill and looking out the window, my mind began to wander.  Since the weather is beginning to warm up just a bit, and I can see that spring is on the horizon, I begin to think about going out for a run.  Problem is that I haven't been able to do that because of my back surgery.  I know that people after back surgery return back to their normal life, but I still have a flair up with my sciatic nerve, every so often, so I don't think it is a good idea to push the boundaries.  I really don't feel like going back in for another surgery.  

I know many of you may think what a great excuse....right???  You have an excuse not to run now, but this doesn't make me feel good inside at all.  As crazy as this sounds, I LOVE RUNNING!  There I said it!  Ever since I started to run the mile in Jr. High track because "no one else would do the event." I have become a lover of running.  There is something about the idea of working hard, sweating, a goal in mind, burning calories, and feeling free. It was always my time to work out things going on in my mind and clear it.  It was a huge stress relief for me, and it made me feel good about myself.  I've always wanted to complete at least a half marathon in my lifetime. Now 10 pounds heavier (or more, I haven't jumped on the scale lately) since my surgery over a year ago. I don't feel good about myself.  I'm missing that part of me, and walking just isn't cutting it. So I am in search of something in my life that will fill that void that I'm missing from running.  I hope someday I can find it, but until then, my plan is to enjoy the search and wait to see what I will discover.  

Does anyone out there have something in their life that really just makes them feel great, and without it, it would be hard???