Tag Archives: motivation

In It to Lose It

by

Errrr, win it? Well, be the winner. Or the loser. The biggest loser. Which is the winner of money. And the loser of…some weight.

That made sense, right? No?

Today marks the official start of my company’s ‘biggest loser’ style weight loss competition. This is our second year running it and the person who coordinates all of the health and wellness events for the company (*points to self*) has really amped up the contest this year. Team t-shirts. Lots of prizes. Weekly prizes. Team prizes. And one big mother of a top prize.

$1000

I want it. I really do. But with that much money on the line, I’ve got a lot of competition. 36 people signed up and that is out of a company of just over 100 employees. Which, for the success of the program, I’m thrilled. We’re working to implement health and wellness programs, because unhealthy employees have higher health insurance costs, etc etc. So, if I can get a third of the company the shed some pounds, I’m a ROCK STAR.

But man, I’m scared. Last year’s winner lost 16.9%. At my current weight, that would mean losing 63 pounds. Did I mention this is a 12 week competition? Yeahhhhh.

I mean, really, I don’t think I’m scared of not winning. I’m scared of falling into the same pattern I did last year – stay on track for three weeks, go off track for 7 weeks, get back on track for 2 weeks, lose 3%. That was less fun than it sounds. Oh, it doesn’t sound fun? Yeah, it wasn’t. Even if I don’t win, I’m trying to use these 12 weeks to really kick start me into losing weight, getting exercise and living a healthier lifestyle. And if I also win $1000, that’s cool. (I’m so nonchalant, right?)

I signed up for Weight Watchers online to keep me on track with food. I rejoined my gym to get me moving.  I’ve got my husband on board with cutting back on the junk, and my 16 year old daughter asked if she could be my gym buddy. What else do I need?

I’m going to need cheerleaders. Coaches. Volunteers to toss water in my face as I run by. Maybe we can skip that last one. But all kidding aside, I’m asking for help. Which is something I almost never do. But I’m asking. Help a sister out? If you see me on Twitter and I’m tweeting about how I really want to consume mass quantities of gelato, kick my gently in the rear end? Spam me with healthy recipes? Text me at 5:00AM and ask if I’m on my way to the gym? Or outside shoveling, because heyyyyyy New England.

Footnote: Due to the shockingly unshocking Massachusetts weather conditions in winter, we are currently buried in snow. (If you say ‘It’s so pretty!!!’, I might slug you.) So the start of the program actually got moved until Monday.

A Little More of This, A Little Less of That

by

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UI-ZteQ8JGU&w=853&h=480]

Going off of this awesome idea, I (Mer – waves from behind the Scoot a Doot curtain) asked the Chicks what they’d like to hear more and less of in 2014, either from themselves or others.

victorianame

More:

“I’ll do what I can, when I can, with what I’m given.” This is a reminder for work and life. I’m hard on myself when I can’t complete a task on deadline, make a mistake or can’t travel to see a loved one. I need to remember that I can’t do it all.

“I can and I will.” I’ve adopted Meri’s mantra. Fortunately, she likes to share! I repeat it several times a week. But could certainly use it far more. Having a bad day? Need a reminder or an affirmation? It fits the bill all around.

“Please,” “thank you” and “you’re welcome” People don’t say these words enough. Such small words mean so much to so many people.

Less:

“You should have…” Don’t focus on what went wrong, instead focus on what you can do to make a situation better.

“I can’t do it.” You CAN do it. If you believe it, and put on the work, you can do anything. If you tell yourself you can’t, you won’t.

Gangnam style (’nuff said)

meridithname

More:

“I volunteer…” (not as tribute, for what it’s worth) aka “How can I help?” I work with a lot of volunteer based organizations and I can say this with much certainty – we always need MORE help. When people readily volunteer, come to the table with ideas, and make things happen it’s always a welcomed and happy event!

“It’s all good!” Pete the Cat says this in my kiddo’s book and my variation on it is “No worries.” Positive attitudes make things so much more pleasant.

Less:

“I have to do laundry now.” Sadly, I don’t think I’ll be saying this less. But maybe I could get on more of a schedule so it doesn’t feel like I’m doing it all the time, every day.

“I can’t…” after someone has committed that they CAN, the last thing that I want to hear is that they can’t. It’s important to know ones limitations but good planning makes the phrase less said (on my part and on others).

brookename

More:

“What can I do to help?” In my house and in my volunteer commitments – and I’d like to be better about accepting help when it’s offered.

“Let’s play!” My kids are growing up, and with half of kindergarten completed by my oldest, I know we will continue to be busier and busier (and busier). Between school, homework, play dates and our scheduled activities like dance class, I want to take more time for unstructured free play with my littles. Every day.

“No, I can’t do that.” Like Meri, I volunteer for quite a bit. This year, I’d like to learn how to say no. That I don’t have to be in charge of everything, every time.

Less:

Yelling. I pray for more patience every day and hope I’m getting stronger. As a parent, I’m still learning how to stop and take a breath before I react- and I need to keep working on that.

jessicaname

More:

“Here, let me get the door for/do that for/help you.” Any of these combinations is a win. I try to do one nice thing for someone I don’t know per day, whether it’s as simple as holding a door open or buying someone less fortunate a coffee. When we reach out to people like that, we make a connection, however fleeting. That simple gesture might make someone’s day!

“I understand where you’re coming from.” Even if you don’t agree with it, understanding where someone’s coming from goes a long way. Unless that place is somewhere incredibly stupid and close-minded, of course.

“Thank you!” Two words. So simple. Easy to say and extremely valuable.

Less:

People glued to their phones. This includes myself. You miss so much when you’re staring at your screen. Put it down, look around, have a conversation!

Also, no more mention of twerking. Please.

camillename

More:

“You’re right.” Admitting when I’m wrong is one of my non-strengths.  While I’ve gotten marginally better at using the phrase “I’m sorry”, “you’re right” seems to elude my vernacular.

“I can’t.” I know what you’re thinking…shouldn’t this be I CAN?  That’s not a typo.  Sometimes saying no is just as important as saying yes.

“I’ll do it now.” I’m the best at procrastinating and I have a terrible memory. When I put things off, I usually forget about them.

Less:

“I hate.” I need to be a bit more careful in proclaiming my hatred of things, especially things that I don’t actually hate or even really care about.

“I’m starving.”  I’ve never actually been starving a day in my life.  There are people in this world who are without and it’s a huge disrespect to stand in my stocked kitchen and think that I am starving.

“Fatass.” This is my favorite way to slam myself.  Negative self-talk is poison.

“I know.” It’s no secret, I’m a know-it-all.  I don’t mean to be, I just listen to a lot of NPR and watch a lot of documentaries. When someone brings up a topic I have some knowledge in, I want to discuss!  And sometimes in an argumentative style.  While I think a respectful argument can be quite thrilling, sometimes it’s just as thrilling to listen.

rebeccaname

More:
“I can/I did.” I may not be able to do everything. I may just NOT do things. But I will focus on what I can do, and what I have done. This is how progress is made.

“You inspire me.” Far to often, the people who inspire us have not idea that they are doing it. A while back, a friend of mine wrote a guest post about how I had inspired her. I was shocked! And touched. So, the people who are my inspirations? Get ready to hear all about it.

“You’re beautiful.” To myself. Because I need to hear it. From me.

Less:

“I can’t/I didn’t” These have been my mantras for far too long. I can’t stick to a diet plan. I didn’t prepare for this race I’m about to run. I can’t be the person I want to be. We have have things we can’t do, things we didn’t do, but these have been my constant state. No more.

“Let’s hang out soon.” This is something I find myself saying a lot, but not acting on nearly often enough. The internet makes it easier to connect with people, even if you don’t see them. But there is a lot to be said for a nice, old-fashioned, sit down conversation. I want more of those. And really, less phone/internet in general is a personal goal for me this year. A favorite author of mine tweeted something a while back. “What if, for my birthday, I gave myself a year off from the internet?” I was both horrified and in love with the idea. So, while NO internet isn’t a reality for me, LESS internet and MORE face to face interaction sounds fabulous. Want to come over?

“Let’s work on being healthier.” This is me, around my house, all the time. Lots of talk about changes to make us healthier as a family. But, it seems to me, the more we talk about it, the less we do about it. It’s time to stop talking about change and start implementing it. I don’t have to say ‘we’re going to have less junk in the house’ to have less junk in the house.

So now it’s your turn! What do you think we should say more of in 2014? Less of?

My Year in Pictures

by

To say this year has been an active one for me is a bit of an understatement. My 2012 ended with a newborn baby- my third- and I began 2013 with some pretty specific fitness aspirations.

First, I wanted to fit into my jeans again. (Is that really a fitness goal? Well, I wanted to fit into my running shorts again too. That counts, right?) I wanted run a half marathon before the end of the year and I wanted to train smarter and more broadly- to begin lifting weights and try different kinds of cardio instead of just running.

I’ve done the postpartum return to fitness before, obviously, but never with this much determination. Never with specific goals (Okay, with each babe, I have wanted to fit into my pants again. But it was super easy with the first two kids and really hard work this time around. I’ve been told it’s because I’m over 30 now. Sigh.).

At first, I walked a lot. Once I got the all clear from my doctor (6 weeks post-baby), I eased back into running on the treadmill and began working out with a trainer. I also tried barre workouts, zumba and returned to my favorite hot yoga class. When summer arrived and the baby grew bored of sitting at the gym with me, I began running in the early mornings with Sara- we ran longer and faster; each of us chasing our own goals.

By fall, I had some sweet definition in my arms. My pants fit again too- it took 10 whole months- and I was ready to tackle that half-marathon. Timing is everything, and I was grateful that this year was Vic’s year to run the NYC marathon because that meant she could run with me for Wine and Dine. I could have run it alone, of course, but it made it easier to have a friend cheering me along for those 13.1 miles.

I decided to do the run streak during this holiday season because I thought it would be fun (“Isn’t this fun?” is basically my motto for all things fitness.) and I love a challenge. Some days have been awful. Just yesterday, I sent Meri the following text: “I don’t want to run. I’m so tempted to stay in my jams and drink coffee all day.” Like any good, bossy friend, she told me to just get it done. Most days have been wonderful though, and while I don’t think I could ever be an every day runner, I’m glad I ended the year with all this running.

I’m excited to see what next year holds for me. I have three races on the calendar already- the Glass Slipper challenge and the Nike Women’s half in DC, and there are a few more I really want to run.

I’ve been thinking about my goals a lot lately, but since I’m not quite ready to commit to them here, I thought I would share some of my favorite fitness photos from the past year.

My first post-baby run. My warm-up walk included a nursing session.

My first post-baby run. My warm-up walk included a nursing session.

My view from the treadmill.

My view from the treadmill.

J and I attempted a monthlong wall-sit challenge. Yeah...we didn't complete it. But I got this cute picture!

J and I attempted a monthlong wall-sit challenge. Yeah…we didn’t complete it. But I got this cute picture!

The boy was totally tired of the gym at this stage. This was my last workout with him present. (which meant the beginning of very early mornings)

The boy was totally tired of the gym at this stage. This was my last workout with him present. (which meant the beginning of very early mornings)

Sara and I after hot yoga.

Sara and I after hot yoga.

The Bob got some love during the second half of the year.

The Bob got some love during the second half of the year.

My first postpartum race- the UCF 5 miler and 2 miler (I did both for the bling)

My first postpartum race- the UCF 5 miler and 2 miler (I did both for the bling)

Back at Wine and Dine again, and happy I got to run with my friend.

Back at Wine and Dine again, and happy I got to run with my friend.

Still working out with Trainer Jen. She makes me do all sorts of crazy things.

Still working out with Trainer Jen. She makes me do all sorts of crazy things.

Run streak! A long run last weekend with my friend, Dorothy.

Run streak! A long run last weekend with my friend, Dorothy.

What races do you have scheduled for 2014? Do you set yearly goals? Share your favorite fitness photo from 2013 with us on Twitter or Instagram! #favefitphoto

Kid Tested, Mother Approved

by

There was a time in my life, not so very long ago, when I would have given anything to just have a “normal” body.  I never dreamed of the oh so coveted thigh gap or the pronounced cheek bones; I had sense enough to embrace my size 9 feet and my big bones.  I just didn’t want to be Extra Large.  Why couldn’t I just have one of those metabolisms that lets me eat what I want and maintain a healthy BMI? Judging myself by an index devised in the 1800’s is completely logical, right?  I abused my body and destroyed my self-esteem and it was a tremendous climb back to positive mental health.  When I became a parent, I made it my mission to make sure my children never travel this path.  I don’t ever want them to doubt their worth, not even for one second, because of some stupid standard society has dictated as beautiful or smart or acceptable.

My darling gems.

My darling gems.

My childhood was filled with running and climbing and hiding and seeking.  We built things out of wood and got splinters.  We played catch and picked stickers out of our socks.  We made mud pies and drank from the hose.  We ate carrots straight from the soil and apricots right off the tree. During all this time, I never once thought to worry about my metabolism or my BMI.    I was normal.  

Oh, how the times have changed. Chicken nuggets, computer games, cell phones, youtube, Minecraft…this is the new normal.  It’s normal for an 8 year old to have a cell phone.  It’s normal for kids to have McDonald’s for breakfast.  Normal has been redefined.  This new normal, combined with my daughter’s severe asthma, my son’s hyperactivity, and my history of ADD and depression, makes family exercise not only a priority, but an absolute necessity.

My poor girl after her latest asthma attack.

My poor girl after her latest asthma attack.

Getting my kids to turn off the tablet is no easy task, but explaining all my reasons to a five and eight year old would only cause confusion and/or possible scarring for life. We’ve tried many activities. Some result in constant whining and misery for all involved.  Others they beg to revisit week after week.  So, as dictated by my children, Sophia and Alex, here are our Top 5 Ways to Exercise.

331178_10150528083246140_2048705717_o

#5 – Organized Sports

The gang was a bit divided on this one.  Sophie’s a big fan of cheerleading and gymnastics but we still haven’t found Alex’s sport yet.  I wasn’t keen on the idea of my daughter getting into cheer initially.  I’ll admit it, I’ve always thought cheerleading to be a bit vapid.  I just don’t understand why sports teams need young girls in short skirts smiling and shouting in unison whilst flashing their undies to everyone.  But Sophie likes it and the instructor promotes strength training and flexibility, making them do push-ups and yoga poses during their warm-up and cool-down.  I’m still coming to terms with it, but I’m trying to be open-minded.  It teaches commitment and responsibility to a team, which, unless Sophie plans on going underground, are great skills for the future.  It’s a little bit expensive, but I consider it an investment in developing essential life skills.

Organized Sports.jpg

#4 – Video Games

Yep, video games can be good for you!  Sophie loves the Wii Fit.  She likes the running and yoga the best.  Occasionally, we’ll bowl together or play tennis.  Alex enjoys to Xbox Kinect because he gets to pretend to use a lightsaber.  For the record, his actual response was “lightsaber fights”.  Also, you can pretend box.  This is great for relieving family tension.  My personal favorite is the dance game.  I don’t know what it’s called, but I’m perfect on the easy setting.  Video games give the illusion of gaming but it’s really good exercise.  Like when you blend carrots in with your spaghetti sauce.

2013-10-17 22.05.17

#3 – Hiking

My kids love nature and every couple weeks, we try to go on an adventure.  Sometimes it’s the local trail, Sycamore Canyon, where we scan for foxes and coyotes.  Or if we’re feeling more social, we head over to Mt. Rubidoux to climb our way to the cross at the very top.  We’ll venture over to University of Riverside’s Botanical Gardens or we might just walk to the park down the street.  Taking the time to enjoy the bits of nature in our concrete suburbia always turns into a learning experience.

Hiking.jpg

#2 – Swimming

Living in Southern California is definitely a factor when it comes to this activity.  We can swim pretty much 9 months out of the year and when my  grandma belongs to the golf club down the street and can get us into the heated pool, the likelihood of us using said pool skyrockets.  I have two little fish.  They’ll swim anywhere, anytime: the beach, the pool, the front yard sprinklers, the fountain at Starbucks…if it’s even the least bit warm out, my kids are in their suits.  We spent this summer at a local water park and pool.  It was the best $120 I’ve ever spent.  Not only were they occupied all day during summer break, but they were exhausted when they got home.  Which means they slept well.  Which means I slept well.

swimming.jpg

#1 – Trampolines

By far, the activity that they beg and beg for is to go to Sky Zone.  Located in a warehouse, Sky Zone is a big room filled with trampolines.  You purchase time on the tramps and you just jump.  The first time we went, we purchased an hour and by the end of our time, we were pooped out.  There are different sizes and shapes, and some fully enclosed for dodge ball tournaments.  They have a pit of foam blocks that people can dive into, which my kids like the best.  I did it once but trying to climb out of the pit zapped my energy like no other.  They even offer a fitness class.  It’s stunning that something so easy as jumping on a trampoline can work your body so hard.  Trampolines are no joke.  

skyzone.jpg

There you have it, Sophie and Alex’s Top 5 Ways to Exercise.  My children are fairly adamant that these activities will be loved by all your families and that you all try them.  (That was verbatim, btw).  Reject those unrealistic standards and normalize being unique.  Make family fitness the new normal.

Lessons From A Streaker

by

I’m almost 30 miles into this running streak and not quite halfway through. As someone who typically runs four times a week, this has been a challenging exercise. Here’s what I’ve learned so far:

Running every day means not waiting until Christmas to buy new running attire. (Side note- did you know that Anthro carries activewear now? Shame on you for not telling me. I’ll take one of everything, s’il vous plait.) New shorts, new socks, new long-sleeved shirts- thanks, Vic, for introducing me to Oiselle– you name it, I’ve bought it. If I’m going to live in my running clothes this month, I’m going to do so in style.

These pants! Had to have 'em.

These pants! Had to have ’em.

I’m so glad that messy buns are still a thing. (If they aren’t, don’t tell me.) Who wants to blow out their hair only to throw it up again the next morning for a run? Not this girl. I’m rocking a bun and headband all over town. Stylish and a time saver= winning combination.

Does that "Messy Hair, Don't Care" shirt come in my size?

Does that “Messy Hair, Don’t Care” shirt come in my size?

If I know you’re a runner, I’ll invite you to run with me. On Thanksgiving morning, I looked at my husband and said, “You know what would be fun? If we all went on a run together. Doesn’t that sound like fun?” Never mind that it was the coldest day we’ve had here all winter (like 40 degrees. Typically it’s 85. Yes, right now.). We bundled up the children and took everyone out for a quick run around our neighborhood. Last week, my oldest girl rode her scooter while I jogged next to her. This morning, I took my friend out for a birthday brunch and when I invited her, I totally gave her the same spiel I’d given J on Turkey Day. “You know what would be fun?…” Running play dates are the next big thing.

Post-run on Thanksgiving morning.

Post-run on Thanksgiving morning.

Running every day means more holiday cookies, right? Because I’m using this streak as an excuse to eat all the candy cane-flavored things (except the peppermint yogurt raisins I saw at Target because that just sounds gross. And maybe a little too healthy anyway.)

These or the candy cane Oreos? Kidding, you know I got both.

These or the candy cane Oreos? Kidding, you know I got both.

All in all, I’m having fun streaking. It’s been good for me to switch up my routine a bit and run with different friends and in new locations. Some days are a challenge- I had to squeeze a mile in on a full stomach right before I left for carline one afternoon last week and I thought I was going to be sick. I’m also already planning my rest days. But there are plenty of proud moments too- that I’m pushing myself, that I’m making it work during a busy time of year, and that I’m taking time for me.

Roll call, Streakers! How’s it going? Favorite holiday cookie?

I See Streakers!

by

Ah, December. Lights and menorahs and elves deck the halls. Santas are running; people are donning their gay apparel, or Ugly Sweaters, for either festivities or runs (or both).

And there are streakers all over the place!

This marks my second year participating in the Runner’s World Holiday Run Streak (which Brooke blogged about it last month). While Scoot a Doot was just a twinkle in our eye, I wrote about the streak last year on my tumblr (on this very day, might I add).

Having this goal of running every day is really working for me.  Instead of feeling like it’s a chore, I make the time for it and get it done.  In the old days (you know, so far ago – last year) I would wake up before everyone in the family and get my runs in.  Now, with our gym schedule – Jay going MWF, me T/Th – that won’t work.  But I have three hours where both kids are in school and those are prime.

Errands get done T/Th since I get to kick ass earlier in the morning. Works for me.  Of course it’s not perfect and with the kids having half days all next week, I might be screwed for time, but I am going to PUSH for at least a mile to happen each day.

Not a whole lot has changed since then in regards to timing. My kids even have half days all next week – parent/teacher conferences fall at the same time every year. However, the streak is alive and I’m making it happen!

In this very busy season of celebrations, choir concerts, PTO events, and family fun I need to actively carve out a piece of time that is solely and completely for me. I’m able to tune out the daily outside influences and come out the other side of my mile(s) with a clearer mind. It’s much like yoga in that respect.

Vic’s mantra of “anyone can run a mile” remains at the forefront of my mind when I’m not really feeling the run. It can be nine and a half minutes if I’m motoring and just need to get one mile in; it can be a thirteen minute mile if I am jamming out to my iPod and not really caring about the speed. Alternatively, it can be multiple miles in an hour. I’m not currently training for a race so achieving the small increments of miles really works within this 35 day stretch.

And while the time running gives me a chance to recharge and sort my thoughts, I don’t feel like I’m truly alone because hello, social media!

Hashtagging on Twitter and Instagram connects me with other streakers. Additionally, I’m participating in Karen and Cyanne’s Challenge Loop. (Both of whom I get to meet this weekend – yeehaw!) Checking in each day and posting pictures there keeps me accountable.

Thanksgiving Day = day 1 of the streak!

Thanksgiving Day = day 1 of the streak!

day3

We all need a little inspiration sometimes.

Rocking out to VH1 Classics on day 4 - Cyndi Lauper and Madonna were both favorites.

Rocking out to VH1 Classics on day 4 – Cyndi Lauper and Madonna were both favorites.

I plan to finish the year out strong, with a happy mind and body!

runhappy

What are you doing within the month of December to get your “me time” in? Have you ever streaked before or participated in a Challenge Loop?

Just Go With It

by

Ask anyone, I’m a planner.

I have to be for my job. I need to be when I train. I like to be for my life.

That doesn’t always means I am organized, (need proof? look at my closets!) but I do like to know what I’m doing or where I’m going well before any big trip, project or event arrives.

My husband? He’s the last-minute master. He often books his plane tickets a day or two before he leaves for a trip, he’s the guy doing laundry an hour before he heads to the airport, and he leaves the house to see a movie in a theatre at the time the printed schedule shows the movie will begin.

Rarely does J miss his flight, mis-pack or miss the movie.

It drives me nuts, in part because in my business when you arrive late, you miss the story. But his way works just as well as mine. It’s just different.

He lives in the moment. I plan for the moment. We both love the moment.

Lately, I’ve been trying to go with the flow a bit more regularly.

If he suggests a last minute change, I go with it.

If I didn’t, I never would have dreamed of jumping into the Atlantic Ocean on the Maine coast last Thanksgiving Day. It was an exhilarating, albeit frigid, experience that I wouldn’t trade for the world.

But I might not have considered it in my past. It was cold, it was winter and well, I’m not crazy.

Then I thought – what the hell. I only live once. Why not?!

So after our (planned) holiday hike up Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park, we set off for Sand Beach. We didn’t have swimsuits along so we both improvised. Sports bra, running shirt and undies for me, underwear for him, and we bolted past a gaggle of tourists and jumped into the crashing waves.

We splashed at each other and I was pummeled by a giant wave. And I outlasted my husband in the freezing ocean.

It. Was. Amazing.

Once we were back on dry land, shivering and covered in towels and blankets by our loving family, we questioned our sanity. And bragged about our feat.

sandbeach

On Friday, I had a similar – but far less freezing – moment at my in-laws. Following our morning walk around the property, my husband asked me to wander off with him.

I was cold. I needed to use the bathroom. I wanted to head inside and hit the treadmill.

But I didn’t. And Mother Nature rewarded us with huge snowflakes, the kind where you can see each flake’s intricate, unique design. Words can’t describe how enthralled I was with this discovery.

snowflake

So today I say, just go with it. You may not have planned for it. But you likely won’t regret it.

What are some spur of the moment decisions you’ve made lately? Have you taken the less traveled path? Where did it lead you?

Guest Post: For Those Who Inspire AND Need Inspiration

by

A couple of days ago, Bec posted about change and the various stages associated with it. If you didn’t read it, go here and do so. I was pleased as punch to see the post, mostly because I was happy to see Bec in a better place.

So I got to thinking on my drive home from work, what can I do to help my good friend who has helped me so much on my journey? What’s the best way to be supportive? I thought it over, texted with Mer, and decided the truth, as it often is, was the best way to go.

Here it is: more years ago than I want to think about, Bec and I bonded over our shared love of sarcasm and angsty teenage love stories. I was in a different place than I am now, and it was a dark place. Bec and I have a lot in common when it comes to how we grew up and how we see our bodies, which unfortunately is a history of feeling simply not good enough. I remember sharing the story of how I don’t remember a time when I didn’t think I was an obese, disgusting girl in need of a diet. This includes grade school. Bec agreed.

Somewhere along the way, Bec decided it was change time. She started running. She started eating healthier. Everywhere there was Bec, there were these words:

yesterdaytomorrow

I saw what she was doing and I started making some half-assed changes of my own. We fell off the wagon together. We got back on together. And even when Bec wasn’t on the wagon with me, she has been my fearless cheerleader (what can I say, sometimes I’m a grump).

Then there was a moment where I found myself standing in her kitchen flipping through a book about training for a marathon the night before a 5k. Bec made an off-handed comment about maybe trying a half marathon one day. I shrugged it off, thinking, yeah, right, that’s impossible. I am still too big and too slow and too just not to do anything more than walk a 5k. (To be fair, that day was hotter than the face of the sun before we started moving. Witness our fabulous pre-race look below.)

heatherbec

In spite of myself, I ended up reading that book that Bec assured me was fantastic. And she was right. I signed up for a half marathon after reading it. And then I kept going. I recently completed my third half marathon (Wine and Dine with some Chicks you know and love! They wrote about that too) and I’m already signed up for a bunch more. I’ve made some big changes, and though the bacon and cheese still win sometimes, I can say that I have finally gotten beyond half-assed into real change.

So what’s the moral of my story? I wouldn’t be here without Bec – because in spite of her protests, and her stumbles, Bec has been the single biggest catalyst for change in my life. Her positivity and inability to ever truly give up has gotten me through some of my tougher spots. She has introduced me to some great ladies who have continued to help me keep my chin up and legs moving.

I consider myself to be a fiercely independent person. I know Bec is pretty stubborn too. But I know I depend on my friends to see me through the rough spots in my life, and I want Bec to know we’re here to do the same. For all the pep talks I got, direct and indirect alike, I am more thankful than a few words on a blog can ever express.

Becci, you can do this. Maybe today isn’t your day, or next week isn’t your week, but you will get there in your own time. Finding a kindred soul was cathartic for me, and I can only hope that I can repay you in kind along the way. I know that horrible not-good-enough voice still lurks around the corner for us both, and I’m too honest to say it’s gone away completely, but sometimes, that bitch does shut up. At the very least, she’s gotten a lot quieter.  I will see you in April, and if you’re a cheerleader or a runner, either way, you are an amazing friend and inspiration.

Have a friend who gave you your push out the door? Or who inspires you to keep going? Or do you just love Bec like I do and want to tell her so? Comment away!

Heather is a half marathoner, dreamer and doer. You can find her on twitter.

Get Ur Streak On

by

You know how it is- you reach the end of a training cycle and immediately begin searching for another race to run. A few weeks ago, I contemplated running a local half-marathon at the beginning of December. I’d already planned to keep training with Sara, as her race isn’t for a couple of weeks, so why not, right? Well…the more I thought about it, I didn’t care for the idea. Ideally, I’d like more rest time than three weeks. I’d also like to improve on my W&D time, which wouldn’t be easy. Ultimately, I decided to wait. Rest. Continue running, obviously, but also devote more time to strength training- something I neglected as I got closer to race day.

I knew I still needed to focus on a goal. As luck would have it, I had some free time to read the latest issue of Runner’s World last week and saw an article about the RW Holiday Running Streak. The challenge is to run every day from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day. It only took about 30 seconds for me to decide to participate. I’ve never done a running streak, so my plan is to keep my current schedule (four days of running, one of them a longer run) and add a mile to the remaining days. They may not be fast. Or maybe I’ll feel like running more than a mile. Maybe I’ll feel like running less. Perhaps I’ll take the girls for a run on the track near our house or do laps on the soccer field- totally counts, right? My goal is to complete the streak with the least amount of planning possible; I think it will be more fun that way and less stressful during an already busy time.

I hope this will allow me to consume more Christmas treats! No, really, I hope this will make me a stronger runner. I have speed goals and while I’m not focused on them right now, they are always lurking in the back of my mind. I’ve read that one way to increase speed is to increase one’s total weekly mileage…so let’s see, shall we?

In other news, I wrote a guest post over at Sara’s blog, The Classy Crafter. Check it out to find a cute family craft that you can enjoy for many Thanksgivings to come (or at least until you add another family member and have to make a new one.

Philadelphia Marathon’s biggest fan

by

My favorite race that I’ve never run? That would be the Philadelphia Marathon! I’ve cheered/volunteered for the past four years, since Vic ran her first marathon in 2010. Why so much love for a race I’ve never participated in? Well, it’s the race that made me WANT to run.

When I caught wind of Kyle’s plans to run Philly as her very first marathon, I swooped in (Eagles fans, that one was for you!) and said, “You’ll stay with me! I’ll make sure you get there and back and it’s going to be awesome and there will be signs and I’ll cheer and you’ll sleep at my house and have an amazing time.” I bossed my way right in and she, thankfully, was very receptive!

She arrived on Saturday and immediately my kids tried to talk her into roughhousing with them (she wisely declined). Instead, we went to dinner with Megan and her four year old at The Pop Shop for a little carb loading… for both of us. I mean, spectating takes a lot out of a girl and I needed to prepare!

Megan's 4 year old daughter is gearing up to be a professional photographer!

Megan’s 4 year old daughter is gearing up to be a professional photographer!

We headed home around 8 and got Kyle all tucked in by 9, with visions of finish lines dancing in her head. Our alarms were set for the heinous hour of 3:15 (her) and 3:30 (me) – hey, that extra 15 minutes does matter.

Who has two thumbs and is ready to run a marathon? THIS GIRL!

Who has two thumbs and is ready to run a marathon? THIS GIRL!

Out the door by 4am, we made our way to the train station and were quickly underway. To entertain her, I showed her the video that Bec, Cam, Jenn and I made during Hurricane Sandy. Because hey, what takes stress away more than watching people being silly for six and a half minutes? Nothing, that’s what!

phillymarathon1

This was my last sighting of pre-marathoner Kyle.

Following the swarms of other runners and spectators, we made our way to the start line. In past years I’ve walked Victoria right up to her corral but with the heightened security following the bombings at the Boston Marathon, I was only allowed to go so far before I had to send her on her way. We parted with a big hug and off she went to the security check point and to find the orange corral.

And off I went to find a Starbucks. Which, not surprising, I did… and then sadly realized it didn’t open until 6:30. It was only 5:30. So I hung out right outside for the next hour, watching runners walking to the start (okay, fine, I was eavesdropping!) and chatting with family members and friends who were hanging out waiting for Starbucks to open as well.

phillymarathon2

Pacers heading to the start

It was right around this time that I saw a yellow Team Athletic skirt and Team Lemon shirt walking by. I’m super bad at recognizing people from picture alone. I always play the, “Is that… nooooo. Well, it might be? Maybe?” game and wind up not saying anything at all. However, there was no mistaking Malinda from Twins Run in Our Family! So much fun to see her and wish her well during the marathon!

Malinda's tweet

Malinda’s tweet

While waiting for Starbucks to open, I also met Andrea. Andrea had run a marathon the previous day and her husband, Cooper, was doing the half before the Eagles game. Happy to have a friend, we stuck together waiting for Starbucks and then headed to our first spectating position, just in front of Love Park.

Spectating at the Philadelphia Marathon is pretty fantastic because the course is easy to navigate, even as a fan. Miles 1 and 6 are just a few blocks from each other so once fans see their runner go past mile 1 (or anywhere within that range, give or take a half mile), they can then cross the couple of blocks to see them after they’ve circled through Old City.

The chair athletes came just around the bend a little after the 7am with the Elites following behind.

So fast, they were blurs. Literally.

So fast, they were blurs. Literally.

I knew to look for Kyle in the orange corral but Andrea wasn’t sure which corral Cooper was starting in so we just kept our eyes peeled! Everyone was looking fresh in that mile and while I completely missed seeing Kyle, I did manage to catch a shot of Cooper!

phillymarathon4

Soon after orange passed and I realized that I wasn’t going to see Kyle, we decided to hunt her down by mile 6. We crossed the couple of blocks and waited for people to clear their cheering posts so we had prime spots.

6

I was holding my “May the course be with you” sign, which runners really seemed to be digging! It got high fives and smiles. Andrea had her cowbell and was ringing it as we cheered!

Again we saw Cooper, looking strong!

6cooper

And AGAIN, I didn’t see Kyle. Thankfully, she saw me (or maybe she saw the sign) because she HIT ME as she went by. Love hurts, folks.

After that Andrea and I made another stop at a Starbucks for their bathroom and snacks before making our way toward the start/finish area. At this point we had to say our goodbyes as she was waiting for Cooper to finish his race and I was hiking out to miles 15/25 to catch the ever elusive Kyle.

The second part of the race was much quieter than the first, as the marathoners make the long trek to South Philly, visiting Manayunk before making their way back to the finish line in front of the art museum. I wanted to be out there to lend support, not only to Kyle but to other runners as well. My throat was already sore by this point (I might have been a tad bit too enthused during the first cheer zones) and my foot injury from the week prior was rearing its ugly… foot.

phillymarathon6

The sign says “Speeding triggers red light” – I bet that was for all the speedy runners!

Got Kyle’s half split just as I was a passing mile 14 (I think; they didn’t have mile markers at every mile) and stopped walking to cheer and search the crowd for her. Yet again, she found me.

Hello, I’m a horrible friend. Pleased to meet you. Awfully embarrassed!

phillymarathon5

Really, Meridith? Really?

I continued walking along because I knew that Cyanne was just up the way a few miles and we’d planned to meet up by mile 17. However, my heel was super cranky and I knew I’d regret adding additional miles to the day (I rounded out the day at 10 miles – should have just ran the half!) (Not really.) so instead I planted myself just before mile 25 and let Cyanne know I’d see her in a few weeks at the Ugly Sweater Run.

I was going to get the money shot of Kyle during the 24th mile! I spent a couple hours (that is not an exaggeration) searching for a little blonde in a white Alaska tank and capris.

While I was scanning, I saw Malinda again and got to cheer for her out on the course! I know so many other people who were running and yet somehow missed all of them – I was cheering for all of you, I promise.

By this time, my cheering was less vocal (because ouch), more smiling and blowing my whistle. I’d brought candy to hand out but at that point, no one wanted candy, they just wanted the finish line. Totally understandable.

And then… I saw KYLE.

phillymarathon7

Is it really her?

phillymarathon8

IT REALLY IS!!! It’s almost marathoner Kyle!

I shouted! I whooped with joy! KYLE! KYLE! I KNOW HER! I asked, “How are you feeling?”

“Like I’m dying!” she said, cheerfully.

I jumped onto the course with her and ran a couple of steps. “Water’s just ahead. Then mile 25. And then you’re done! AND WE CAN EAT ALL THE FOOD!” With that, I hopped off the course, she continued on toward the finish line; I hobbled over to the path to walk the rest of the way and meet her at the family meetup area.

phillymarathonlast

The next time I saw her, she was a marathoner! Absolutely incredible and such an inspiration, this girl! Kyle ran to raise money and awareness for the Joyful Heart Foundation, which is why we (the Scoot a Doot Chicks) chose that particular wording. Here’s Kyle’s recap!

So why do I go every year to watch the Philadelphia Marathon? Well, as Katherine Switzer said, “If you are losing faith in human nature, go out and watch a marathon.” I haven’t lost my faith in human nature but watching the runners of the Philadelphia half and full marathons certainly reminds me to move into each day with a joyful heart and a grateful one.

Is there a race that you spectate at year after year? Have you ever watched a friend complete their first race, whether it be a 5k, 10k, half or full marathon? What fills your heart with joy?