Ice cream and relish don't mix

Multitasking is my way of life. My dad likes to call it 'bundling'.

Recently a friend invited me to a local mom's group. Ever determined to get the most out of my time I decided to drop by on the way home from my run. That way I could exercise, spend quality time with my daughter, soak up some sunny vitamin D, and meet a new friend to two.

But like ice cream and relish, somethings don't mix well.

Approaching the back yard play date I could feel the sweat starting to run down my face. Writing this makes me wonder why a little red flag didn't pop up in my head. "Warning! Warning! You are smelly and sweaty and gross!" Must have been a cranial malefaction. Perhaps running endorphins shut off reasonable cognitive processes.

I had imagined the group full of happy young mothers eager and excited to make a new acquaintance. Instead everyone seem slightly . . . hesitant. After a few uncomfortable moments of forcing pleasantries I headed home.

Before hopping in the shower I casually looked in the mirror. "Oh" I thought, as I saw my reflection. Oily, stringy hair was falling out of a sagging pony tail. The remains of yesterday's make-up mixed with sweat had made black smear marks underneath my eyes. My randomly selected shirt and short combo clashed against my mismatched socks. Naturally I had left my wedding ring at home. Overall I looked very much like wandering hobo except instead of a grocery cart I had a jogging stroller.

I couldn't help but smile. And then laugh at the thought that crossed my mind. At least I have all my teeth!