2010 was quite a year. When I think back to where I was exactly one year ago and all that I was envisioning for the year ahead … I never would have guessed that I would be pregnant for most of the year. I set goals for myself last year that had to do with embracing my life as it was – without a third child – gaining the courage to believe in myself and to invest in me. I set running goals and personal goals. I became a certified RRCA running coach and a Power Pilates instructor. I started my own business engaging in my creative side. The idea behind these things was to make a conscious effort to look closely at my heart and do things that I believe in, that make me a happier person. That make me a better mother, wife, sister and friend.
I did them. The wheels were set in motion and it was scary and exciting all at the same time. Then one week after I got my Pilates certification I found out that I was pregnant. What a blessing! What a life-changer! Everything in my world completely changed in that instant and now I am less than 4 weeks from my due date, heading into another new year full of possibilities, blessings and wonder. I am stunned and speechless.
I love a new year. I know that the opportunity to make changes in your life is always there, but the new year is just such a ripe and sweet moment to really reflect and dream. I am a dreamer…
On this very first day of 2011 though, I surrender. I surrender with hope and trust. My heart tells me that what I really want for 2011 is to achieve B A L A N C E. To provide love and comfort to my children – all three of them – and to my husband – while not losing myself. To make myself as much of a priority as I do the rest of my family. I know this will be hard. I don’t think I can do it without running. Running is a key to my happiness. It gives me my “me-time.” It makes me healthy on every level – physically, mentally, spiritually, emotionally. I want to look each day head on as it comes and try not to jump ahead beyond that too much.
With all that said though, I will have running and racing goals. Setting and achieving them is part of why I love the sport so much. At this point though I’m not going to set time goals for myself. I might readjust that as the year goes on, but for now I just don’t think it’s realistic since I don’t know what it will be like to regain my fitness after this baby is born. I plan to train for and run Marine Corps Marathon in 2011. I want to run a 10 miler around my 35th birthday in April (either Cherry Blossom or GW Parkway Classic). I want to run at least one half marathon this year.
My baby is due in less than 4 weeks now. I am so excited…there simply are no words. My heart is bursting with joy, gratitude and anticipation.
To 2010, thank you for many lessons learned and blessings bestowed. 2011, I am ready for and open to all that you have to offer.
Happy New Year, everyone!
