Good-Bye 2016; it's been real.

As I sit here on this blustery New Year's Eve, I look back on the race year.  There were many "firsts" for me.  I did my first Spartan race, did an Ultra (which I said I would never do), conquered a warped wall with the help of some friends, and had a blast the entire journey.  I completed 40 various races.

I did set out in 2016 with the intentions of doing the 1000 mile challenge.  Unfortunately, I made it to barely 700 miles.  I suppose if I had counted my elliptical miles, I would have hit my goal but I wanted this to be strictly running, whether it be treadmill or road.

I had a lot going on this year.  While it is no excuse, it did effect my running and fitness endeavor.  My daughter went overseas for 2 months, I went to Africa in the summer, had to plan Vacation Bible School, and plan a wedding in 6 months.  It took it's toll on me.  I now find myself feeling like I should be doing something when, in fact, I don't have any pressing matters to attend to.  It is definately a strange feeling.

I have been going to the gym more and adding lifting to my regime.  I am not a body builder by ANY means but am proud of my progress.  It is slow and steady but I feel stronger.  My husband has big goals in 2017 and I want to be there right beside him.  However, I can't accomplish them to the best of my ability if I don't strive to be better.

Another disappointment was weight gain.  Yes, I gained about 13 pounds this year with everything going on and dealing with various things.  While I am not stressing over it, I still am looking at the scale with a disappointing sigh.  I will lose it, that I have no doubt.  However, it feels like a set back. 

So what are my goals for 2017?

I am going to do the 1000 mile challenge again.  I will conquer it this year.  I want to lose the 13 pounds I have gained and then another 15.  I want to tone and lift like a beast.  I want to push myself to my limits and see how far I can go.  Matt and I are hoping to qualify for the OCRWs.  Will see.

I am blessed that I get to do it all with my husband.  He pushes me to be better and I push him.  

We got this.