My First Run

I've been trying to take my fitness to the next level. Back in January I signed up to do a 5k in May. I figured that'd give me enough time to "train" for it. I've never been good at running. I hate doing any kind of cardio but I figured running will be beneficial to my weight loss and help me push through my plateau. 

When looking through the local recreation catalog for classes for Carlee, I saw an advertisement for the city's 5k/10k run/ walk. It was just 3 weeks away. Without hesitation, I went online and registered. I figured it would be good practice. And if all else fails, I could just walk it. But my goal was to finish it and run the whole thing. A 5k or 3.1 miles may not seem like much to some people, but trust me... it would be an accomplishment for me.

For days leading up to the race I would get more and more nervous (calling it a "race" just made me nervous). I had never done a 5k, so I wasn't sure what to expect. I was nervous because I didn't want to roll my ankle or something along those lines. The night before the race, Carlee was getting ready to go to her dad's and I was telling her about me running in the morning. Her reply, "Mommy, I want to be there. I want to be your cheerleader." She knows just what to say sometimes!

The morning of the race I woke up early and headed to check in. Having never done one before I realized I didn't have to get there right when registration opens. I had more time to sit and wait (and get anxious). My mom and brother came to support me, so I was able to visit with them before the race. 

Then it was time to line up. I joined the crowds of people and found a spot. Then realized I was in the area for 6 minute mile runners. Oh no. That's not me. So I moved back a bit. Then we were off! It took me 30 seconds to even get to the start line because there were so many people. But then the people quickly spread out. I felt like I was off to a decent start aside from the beginning of the route being uphill. Then my pants started to slip down. You've got to be kidding me, I thought. I spent the first mile pulling my pants up. I guess it took my mind off the physical demand of running. 

Then I hit the mile marker and everything magically got better. I was running downhill. My pants got situated or they were on my hips, all I know was that they weren't bothering me anymore. And I seem to get into a groove. Also when I hit the one mile spot, I thought "That went by quick. I'm a third of the way done. This isn't so bad." And honestly the next two miles were easier than the first. But don't get me wrong, I was ecstatic to see the finish line and drop off my j-chip. I met my mom and brother and then we left. 

My goal was complete.

I plan on doing more 5k's in the future. My friend wants me to run a half marathon with her. Wait, let's not get ahead of ourselves. Baby steps.

Thought for the Day

Someone posted the following quote and it hit home for me so I wanted to share.

"The bad news is time flies. The good news is you’re the pilot." -Michael Altshuler

All too often I say time flies especially when it comes to my child. She's almost 3 and a half, already in school, starting sports and dance. Where did the time go? Next time I think that I have to remind myself that I'm the "pilot" and have been there through all those moments that seem to flash before my eyes.

I love being a pilot when she is my passenger.

Winner winner chicken dinner!

There is a particular clothing company that I "like" on Facebook (and in real life for that matter...cute clothes)! So when Mixie Clothing posted that they were having a giveaway, I decided to give it a shot. All I had to do was follow them on Twitter and leave a comment. Done!

This was the dress (as seen on her blog)...

Then a couple days pass and I forget about it. Until Sunday night when I checked Facebook after getting Carlee to bed and saw this...

What? Me? I won?

I never win anything. So this was a nice surprise. Plus who wouldn't love a free dress. 

I received the dress in the mail yesterday. I tried it on last night and it fits perfectly. I love it!

And it goes perfectly with these shoes that I bought recently after seeing them on another favorite blog, Stylish Dish.

I can't wait for warmer weather. I'm ready to wear summer clothes.

Back on the Wagon

The weight loss wagon, that is. Although I wouldn't say I completely fell off, but I was definitely leaning over the side pretty far. 

I blame the holidays. Doesn't everyone? Around that time I got a little lazy with the healthy eating and although I was still going to the gym all the time, I hit a major plateau. I finally decided I need to do something to push me past this stand still. That's when I walked into a gym by my work and inquired about personal training. The very next day I started working out with a personal trainer. By far the best thing I've ever done. Just what I need to take my fitness/ weight loss to the next level. 

He also put me on this horrible great nutrition plan. I lost 4 lbs the first week, so I guess I shouldn't complain too much. I'm anxious to see more results. I've definitely been putting in the hard work. 

I don't plan on falling off the wagon anytime soon. Or ever again.

Picture Day

Today was Carlee's first picture day at school. I sent her to her grandma's house this morning with two outfits (that Carlee had picked out). Right before school, I was sent this picture message with her wearing a combination of the two outfits. 

Before I had dropped her off, I asked her if she was going to smile pretty for pictures. She said,"No but I'm going to pose." And this is why she's my Miss Sassy Pants.