2013

I haven't done a great job of keeping up with the blog this year (or the last few). At the end of the day, life is busy and things get prioritized. The priorities aren't always right but it feels like we are operating in survival mode more often than not. The blog, sadly, is one thing I can't fit in most of the time.

Today, however, was blog worthy. I have been working hard the last year. Running, yoga, boxing, and trying to make myself one of my many priorities.

I have felt selfish at times for running when I could be doing laundry or finishing a work project. I have missed some morning snuggles because I went to the gym early. Big picture, however, I have been trying to be a better example for the kids and work as hard on myself as I do everything else.

My friend, Jen, and I ran a half marathon today. It was my first race since the 1988 Beverly Wood's Fun Run. 25years!!! Somehow Jen convinced me that I was ready. We panicked about the forecast (cold and rainy) and what we would wear (down to late night text about undies).

We got a little lucky that it only rained off and on which just made us run faster. Drew's ragged old hat kept the rain from driving me insane. We ran the entire race and pushed one another when the hills kept hitting us.

We finished, never walking, about three minutes faster than expected.

It. Was. Awesome.

All in all, it has been a great year. I have visited the Great Wall of China, swam with sharks, jumped from too high places into the Caribbean, fought for what I deserved at work and got it, celebrated 10 yrs of marriage with Wade, and the kids grew taller, sharper, and happier. Blessedly, everyone stayed healthy.

The highlight was this race- mile 7 & mile 9. The kids, Wade, Gram and Suppy were there cheering us on. The kids were so excited! Wade was a super fan. Gram and Suppy were back in their natural element...enduring miserable weather in Charlotte Soccer Club jackets cheering for one of their kids. The smiles on Westbrook and Llandy's faces were full of pride and excitement. You can't beat that, folks. Ever.

















And now, I am going to sleep the rest of the year. Grateful and happy.