The year of the 5ks!

OK, so I've decided to make 2015 the year of 5ks when it comes to running. I was ready to run an 8.1 miler or possibly a half marathon at the end of March, but realized I have so much to focus on first.

For example, the 20 lbs I gained slowly over the past 7 months.

For another example, the pain I was in last May at the end of my half marathon. Wear I swore I would never do that again - even though by the next day I was like "I'd totally do that again!". I was in serious pain...we all know how that can make us say things we don't mean. Like when you're in labor and you're like "I'm NEVER having another baby". I have four children, so don't count me out on another 1/2 marathon, LOL!

But most of all, I want to make this year about taking control of every aspect of my health. I was talking to a friend recently and reflecting on my years here on Spark. I had my 5 year Sparkaversary back in October.

There was the journey where I cut back on calories and walked daily. That worked, but it never really stuck.
Then there was the journey where I cut out sugar, but didn't really work out much. Still worked, lost weight, down to 159. But I was a bit flabby.
Then there was last year, where I kinda watched my food intake, but mostly just put in a lot of miles while training for the 1/2.

Now I want to do that all. I already cut out the sugar 14 days ago. I've also been running, anticipating my first races in March. The last 5 days I've really put focus on ST, something I've definitely been bad about. I don't know why, because any time I finish a good ST session I always feel so strong. It's like one of the best feelings I get.

Anyway, see what I'm getting at here? I'm finally getting it ALL put together. I'm down 8 lbs, I'm happy, and although not much has changed yet with my physical appearance, I'm feeling sexy. And yes, that's what I'm going for. While I will watch the number on the scale as one way to measure success, it will not define me or what I am doing.

So, back to the year of 5ks...that's all I'm committing to running this year. With a goal of running each one just a little better, even if by a second. I know that each 5k will bring a different challenge...hills vs. flat (though there isn't much flat in Pittsburgh), cold vs. warm, etc.

On a personal front, things are going pretty well. This year has to be better than last year, I'm determined to make it that way. Not that last year was a total loss, I did after all run my first 1/2 marathon and graduate college!

I'm still very emotional, but it's hard not to be. My baby girl just turned 2 last week. It's went so fast. Knowing she's my last baby, I'm in no hurry for her to grow up! Especially when my other baby girl is turning 18 next month and graduating HS in a few months!! And she has no desire to stay in Pittsburgh to go to college. I know it will be good for her to be a little further from home..out on her own...doing some growing up, but that doesn't make it any easier.

Alright, I'll quit rambling for now :-)

Hugs to you all...especially my long time pals who continue to support me even with my lack of constant participation on this site! And thanks to the newbies who have added me in recent months..I assume from reading when I was the motivator of the day...I will be that again, not by a SP reward, but by being more active on here and supporting you all right back!
Love you all!!
-Beth

P.S. I've never run a 5k!! LOL!