Did I seriously just do that???

Earlier this evening, I signed myself up for my first Half Marathon - and then promptly had a mini panic attack! If anyone had told me a year ago that I would be doing this, I would have laughed in their faces. I couldn't even run 500 feet, much less 13.1 miles. And, even if I did walk most of it, it would have taken me half a day to cross the finish line. I would be the person that the cops follow to a)let everyone along the route know that I was the end and b)make sure I didn't die.

But now I've paid my registration fee, so there's no going back. I'll run this race, and even if I have to be dragged across the finish line I WILL finish. Luckily now that I'm running faster than I did a year ago, I hopefully won't be the last one to cross the finish. I've printed out a training program to follow, and plan to kick it off this weekend. I've got a few races to run in between now and May 6, and I am looking forward to seeing a big improvement over last year's times. Now if only the weather would get and stay warm for the next 4 months...

One year ago today

Today marks my one year anniversary as a member of Weight Watchers. I am so incredibly glad I went in there for the first time last year. I know it sounds so cliche, but it honestly has changed my life. I feel like a brand-new person. I used to be so outgoing, but I felt like the weight was holding me back. Now I'm so much more comfortable speaking with people, and being in situations where I used to feel so uncomfortable - like everyone was staring at me because of my size.

I know I never could have done this without the support of my family, my friends, and my wonderful leader Laura. I know she thinks I'm stalking her, since I'll find other meetings she covers and go to those if I can't make my usual day :). Without everyone of you, I wouldn't be where I am today.

So now what...??? This year I'll focus on eating healthy foods, staying active, and pursuing new goals. I had originally wanted to run a full Marathon, but after talking to some very wise friends I've decided to work on increasing my endurance. So this will be the year of the Half Marathons! I'm looking forward to training for them, and hope we have great running weather again this year. I have to say I never thought I'd be running outside in January and NOT have to bundle up, so here's hoping!