Running Into Spring: Unexpected 5Ks, Ex Encounters & Gentle Progress

March has certainly delivered on the drama this year—though thankfully, it’s mostly been the kind you can laugh about over brunch rather than cry about over rosé. Between spontaneously agreeing to a Parkrun (I know), literally running into an ex mid-sprint (because of course), and things with Josh ticking along nicely, the month has been a gentle rollercoaster. Emphasis on gentle.

The overarching vibe? Taking life as it comes, laughing off the awkwardness, and finding surprising little wins tucked between the unexpected. Spring's arrival has also helped brighten everything—sunnier mornings, lighter evenings, and a general sense of optimism that makes even the smallest events feel special.

The Clapham Parkrun Incident

How I let Sofia convince me to wake up for a 5K in Clapham at the ungodly hour of 8 AM, I will never fully understand. Sofia—effortlessly athletic, eternally cheerful, and annoyingly graceful even while sweating. Me? Questioning every life decision I've ever made, particularly the one involving two glasses of wine too many the night before.

We set off feeling optimistic. Sunshine, fresh air, the gentle buzz of people who voluntarily run for fun. I’d even convinced myself it might be enjoyable. Then, halfway through, it happened. I realised my optimism had conveniently overlooked the reality of actual running: heavy breathing, calves protesting, and a concerning internal dialogue about the nearest brunch spot.

Running Into My Past (Literally)

There he was, the ex. Naturally, he was accompanied by his new (and admittedly lovely) girlfriend, both looking far too comfortable at this ungodly hour. My mind immediately went into panic mode:

• Of all the mornings, all the parks, all the runs?

• Do I fake an injury? Slow down? Sprint away dramatically?

• Seriously, how do men move on so effortlessly?

In reality, the encounter was polite, friendly even—no deep trauma or cinematic drama. But still, it threw me for a loop. And did I let it derail my run? Absolutely not. Did I push myself just a tiny bit harder to finish strong? Obviously. Thriving, always. And, yes, definitely rewarded myself with pancakes afterward.

Dating Diaries: Josh & Easy Company

Josh and I continue our pleasantly undefined situation. Dates have stayed casual, warm, and genuinely enjoyable:

• Lazy coffees on Sundays, chatting about everything and nothing.

• Easy dinners where neither of us feels the need to impress.

• An unplanned wine evening that stretched into hours of effortlessly good conversation.

It's still beautifully uncomplicated. No major red flags, no labels, and for the first time in ages, I’m not overthinking it. This ease feels refreshingly mature—like a chapter I didn’t realise I was ready for. It's comforting to realise relationships don't need constant dramatic peaks and troughs; simple contentment is more than enough.

Fitness: Finding My Groove (Again)

Despite my Parkrun-induced crisis, I've actually settled into a fitness routine that feels right:

• Strength training 3x a week – Weights are my happy place, making me feel strong, centred, and capable.

• Midweek Pilates – Equal parts graceful movement and absolute agony. Somehow, I love it.

• Weekly runs – Begrudgingly inspired by Clapham. I’m not sure if I actually like running or just the satisfaction of proving I can.

Additionally, I booked a sports massage which my calves deeply regret, but my body secretly appreciates. Also, I've started experimenting with yoga—primarily for the promise of shavasana but quietly enjoying the stretches along the way.

Mindset: Embracing the Easy Flow

My mantra for March? Let it be easy. Not forcing anything that doesn't naturally feel good:

• No pushing relationships beyond their natural pace.

• No forcing workouts just for the sake of it.

• Simply embracing what's already going well.

It’s amazing how life starts to flow when you step back and stop trying to control every detail. I've found myself happier, lighter, and quietly content. There's genuine joy in allowing life's little pieces to fall naturally into place without micromanaging every moment.

Pop Culture & Current Obsessions

• Scandoval – The reality TV saga we're all embarrassingly invested in.

• The 'mob wife' aesthetic – Fur coats, bold jewellery, unapologetic glamour. Still obsessed.

• Summer trip planning – The annual Ibiza chatter has begun, and I'm here for it.

• Beyoncé’s tour – Emotional preparation is already underway. Outfit ideas are in progress.

• 'Succession' fever – Final season excitement is palpable.

• Daisy Jones & The Six – The perfect nostalgic escape that's dominated my screen-time lately.

Looking Ahead: Calm Ambitions & Gentle Plans

• More dates with Josh. Curiosity continues, comfortably.

• A wardrobe refresh. One perfectly oversized trench coat is calling my name.

• Actual life admin. My inbox and calendar desperately need attention.

• Possibly booking a spontaneous little April escape before the South of France trip.

• Planting herbs on my balcony, fulfilling my cottagecore aspirations.

• More lazy weekends in the sun, fewer unplanned 5Ks.

March, you’ve been unexpected but delightfully easygoing. Here’s to more calm surprises and less awkward Parkruns in April.

Sophie x