Today I was supposed to be running. I had it all planned out. 10k, cute clothes, family there to watch me finish. Well, instead I am sitting writing this in my recliner, under a nice warm blanket and haven't showered since Friday. The Happy Germ Fairies decided to give me Bronchitis for my birthday! (which honestly I was afraid was instead that my body would not let me run in cold air...... PHEW, it was just germs although I do need to use my inhaler and a balaclava when running in cold air apparently.)
I could be sitting here having a pity party (it was tempting) but instead, I am grateful for what I have, for what I have done, not that I had to skip ONE race.
This year I have done TEN!!! I have walked/run 50k (31.20 miles) and rode 20 miles in organized events.
While working out, I have done another 140 miles of running/walking and biked another 65.
I have gotten someone who has NEVER done a 5k to do TWO with me.
I have learned to love my body, even if it is not perfect.
I am 30 pounds lighter than 6 months ago and 55 pounds lighter than I was when I was 35.
My waist is SIX INCHES smaller. This is one of the measurements that made me say WOW!!!
And I did not do this alone. My family has been there all the way. My son has tolerated late dinners or cooking for himself so I could go to the gym. His dad has taken him whenever I needed so I could be downtown having fun and doing packet pickups. My dad and Margi have been supportive beyond measure. AND MY FRIENDS HAVE CHEERED ME ON! I have reconnected with friends I have not seen since High School and we get up at the unholy hour of 7 am just to go run or walk.
A frequent statement out of my mouth (and makes people chuckle) "Oh, it is just a 5k, that is only 3 miles". Even better "Well, it is only 6 miles, it should be over in about 90 minutes". 6 months ago even that sentence would have NEVER passed my lips.
Last week with my trainer, we did something that I would have NEVER thought possible. The Trainer placed a bosu on top of a 18 inch box. I thought...."Oh what crazy hell does he have planned". THEN, he hands me two 15 pound dumbells. He calmly looks at me "Step up on it, get your balance and do arm curls to an overhead press, lower the weights then step down." WHAT! Has he lost his mind!!!!!????? Guess what- I not only did it, I did 3 sets of 8 of this! How many people can do that!
PLUS
+ 30 pounds of dumbbells AND I ROCKED IT!!!!!!
Two more events planned this year, hoping to see a few more friends there.
11-23-13 Jingle Bell Run/Walk 5k in Loves Park, IL - This one benefits the Arthritis Foundation, is supposed to be a BLAST-- I have formed a team called "Jingle my Bells"- feel free to pledge me or even better, JOIN ME!!! So far, Brenda Sheehama, The Miller Family and I believe my Dad and Margi are IN! The post party is supposed to be a HUGE blast!!
http://JingleBellRockford.kintera.org/jinglemybells2013
11-28-13 Rockford Thanksgiving Turkey Trot 5k, Rockford, IL - maybe if I run in the morning, it will help keep the metabolism up to burn off the calories later in the day.
https://runsignup.com/Race/IL/Rockford/RockfordThanksgivingTurkeyTrot
11-28-13 Rockford Thanksgiving Turkey Trot 5k, Rockford, IL - maybe if I run in the morning, it will help keep the metabolism up to burn off the calories later in the day.
https://runsignup.com/Race/IL/Rockford/RockfordThanksgivingTurkeyTrot
I feel a bit conceited writing this blog today but........ IT'S MY BIRTHDAY!!! If I can't toot my own horn today, then what the heck is the point of life!!!
ME- 5 years ago
Me-6 months ago
Me-NOW!
THANK EVERYONE FOR FOLLOWING MY JOURNEY!!!! Can't wait to see what my October 2014 year in review will look like!
