3 Half Marathons in 2012

One year ago, in November of 2011, I was ready for change.

I didn't know how it would morph, but I knew that it was inevitable.

After having my third child, I was desperate to inhabit my body again and to rediscover me.  And so, I set out, to do some work.

I put one foot in front of the other and decided that I was going to give running a go.

I could barely run around the block or the track at the gym.  I was frustrated...mortified at the place I'd found myself.  My fitness level was in the toilet.

But bit by bit through will and consistency, I started to emerge.

My goal was to run a half marathon on the morning of my 37th birthday.  It was a daunting task.  I had to be able to run for 13.1 miles which seemed impossible.

And then, I did it. It was the best birthday present ever.  Here's me crossing the finish line.

Once I completed that race, I decided that it was time to go back to my roots.  I registered to run the Chicago Half Marathon to reconnect in the city where I went to college and to claim something for my own. I didn't plan on traveling alone for the experience, but with the help of many, I went and had hands down one of the top 10 experiences of my life.  Here's me post the race.

And finally to commemorate the annual anniversary of the year of change, I ran the North Face Endurance Challenge Half Marathon race in Kansas City.  By far and away the most physically grueling of all three courses, it was the best way to end the year.  Here's a post race photo op.

45 pounds lighter, significantly stronger in body, mind, and spirit...here's what I've learned.

• Never ever, ever, ever give up on yourself.  You are a child of God and an investment worth fighting for every minute of every day.

• Anything that is worth its weight in gold is not easy.  It will hurt.  It will be frustrating.  You will want to give up...many, many times.  Don't.  Keep trying.

• Failure is good.  Falling on your face while trying something new and outside of your comfort zone is the best way to know that you are alive, inhabiting your body and living your life.

• You've only been given one life and nobody else will live it for you....it's up to you to decide that you're going to own it...all of it...the good and the bad.

• You are never alone.  More people than you know are willing to support you.  Just reach out.  We're ready and waiting.

• Often, change doesn't have to be all or nothing.  One small tweak today overtime can make a tremendous difference in the long run.

• You are stronger and more capable than you ever imagined.  Your greatest ally is the little voice inside your head and your heart saying, "Keep going.  I believe in you."  Listen to it.  And don't let anyone tell you differently.

• Life is meant to be joy filled.  If you're feeling less than or doubtful that you're "all-in," don't be.  Do something about it.  Change is the only constant.  And, it's a powerful thing.

I don't know what 2013 will bring, but I'm really excited and extraordinarily grateful for this journey.