I'm both nervous and excited for the things I have planned for 2014. My husband and I have made all kinds of great plans for our summer - family vacations, weekend trips and lots of concerts with friends (super exciting). Then there are my plans for running - head coaching Girls on the Run for the first time and running a few half marathon (both exciting and scary since I haven't raced in a few years). And, on top of that, I've decided to set some new fitness goals for myself - goals that require not only being more physically active, but also also making better decisions when it comes to my eating habits (mostly scary).
The reason healthy eating makes me so nervous is that I love food! I've never been a dieter, mostly because I was certain I could never stick to a diet - anything that limited me in any way was out of the question. And don't get me wrong… when I say 'diet' I don't necessarily mean losing weight. Yes, I wouldn't mind shedding a few of these pounds I've put on since marathon training (or all 20, if I'm being perfectly honest), but what I'm most interested in is learning how to eat healthier in general. I don't worry so much about organic eating, although I imagine that will be part of this process, but I am very well aware that the things I put in my body are not always the best things for me, so I'm hoping to learn how to take better care of myself.
Fortunately for me, right at the time I was ready to make some changes, I stumbled upon a friend's recommendation for a new fitness program. After doing some research, it sounded like a program worth trying. It's called the 21 Day Fix. And before anyone gets carried away, no, I do not anticipate looking like this after 21 days (wouldn't that be nice?!?). While it is a 21 day program, it's meant to be done in 21 day cycles, so you can finish the cycle in 21 days, then start again if you haven't reached your own personal goals. There are several things about this program that I'm particularly excited about…
The first is that it doesn't require going to the gym. The program comes with workout DVDs - there are 7 workouts that you do at home. The added bonus is that these workouts are 30 minutes long. I don't have all kinds of spare time during my day to spend working out, but 30 minutes is manageable for me. Having 7 different workouts will keep me from getting bored with any one thing and, as the program suggests, should keep my body guessing.
The second is that the diet portion really focuses on portion control over what you can and can't eat. Of course, as with any diet, there are certain limitations, but I've taken a look at the suggested shopping list and, surprisingly, it wasn't as limiting as I imagined it would be. I'll have to cut out a few things, but nothing I can't live without, and I don't mind trying the things it suggests adding to my diet.
And the very best part of all - it's 21 days. As I mentioned, I don't expect to see all of the results I'm hoping for in just 3 weeks, but it does give me a short time frame during which I should see some pretty significant results. And, if I don't, I will have only committed to 3 weeks. If all else fails, after 3 weeks, I can come up with a new game plan for finding what I'm looking for in a fitness plan.
Now for the downside… signing up with my personal Beachbody coach means that I need to account for my progress. This means pictures and measurements and tracking my calories (YIKES). The program begins mid-February, so I started tracking my diet now so that I can see where I'm starting and have a better idea of the changes once the program starts. I'm required to use My Fitness Pal which is actually a lot easier to use than I anticipated. If you eat anything pre-packaged, you can simply scan the barcode for the dietary information, or you can search for pretty much anything (I used it to calculate my lunch at a hibachi steakhouse yesterday - so much better than searching for each part of my meal separately). And you can track your workouts (they've calculated the calories burned for all kinds of activities from bowling and curling to typical workouts like running and weight lifting) making it simple to see calories consumed vs. calories burned and give you a net number for what you can consume for the remainder of your day. At this point, for anyone looking for an easy way to track their diet, My Fitness Pal is an awesome way to do it.
Fingers crossed that the 21 Day Fix is all I hope it will be. By mid-March I should have a good idea of what it's like and will keep you posted on my results… no promise for pictures, but if I see the kind of changes I'm hoping for, you better believe I'll post them for bragging rights :)
Sunday, February 2, 2014
Thursday, January 23, 2014
The Year of the Half Marathon
Holy cow! How is it possible that it's been this long since I last posted anything?!? I imagine it has something to do with the fact that this blog is supposed to be about running... and running hasn't really been a big part of my life lately. I see that I've managed to post about other random crap, which is fine, I suppose... but it's time to get back to what this blog is all about...
So, I've decided to make this my Year of the Half Marathon. Even though it has been my desire for the last 2 years to run a half marathon, I have yet to really take this goal seriously. So, rather than start running and hope to find a race that fits into my plans for the year, I've decided to register for a race I want to run, then force myself to make it happen. Training for a specific race tends to keep me motivated and on the right track, so I figure it should be easier to stick to my goal... particularly when you spend more than $120 on race registration. I don't know about you, but I'm not a big fan of throwing away money :)
I've spent much of this week doing research on area races, polling friends about their plans for 2014 and connecting with some new people in the running community. Thus far, I'm finding it easy to jump back into the whole running thing and, with a few runs under my belt, I feel like I'm in the right mindset for training.
There's really only one problem at this point... having already run a marathon, I believe I have an overconfident feeling about running a mere 13.1 miles. Don't get me wrong, my ability to complete 26.2 absolutely proves to me that I can finish a half marathon... I'm not at all concerned about the distance. My bigger issue is that I have this crazy idea that I can run a whole bunch of them this year... as if it will be no big deal and my body can handle that kind of beating. For some of these races I have myself convinced that they will be for training purposes only... that I won't race and I'll take the opportunity to work on pacing and getting used to the distance. But, there's not a chance in hell that this is how it will end up playing out. I'm far too competitive for that. If I line up at a starting line and a gun goes off, you better believe I'll be trying to get to that finish line as fast as humanly possible and that, given the opportunity, I will pass every last person I possibly can. This isn't training... this is racing. And I wonder if it's smart to put my body through that kind of run while 'training' for a specific race. I should probably do a little more research on this topic before getting carried away.
Attempting to play this one smart, I've started by registering for just one race... the Pittsburgh Half Marathon on May 4th. A runner friend of mine suggested it and, even though the hills scare the crap out of me, I figure it'll be a fun course and an excuse to take a little weekend trip.
The second race I really want to do is the Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon in Cleveland on October 11th. I heard good things about this race last year and have wanted to do it ever since. I'm not yet registered, but this is definitely on my to-do list this year.
Also on my radar are the Irish Jig & Jog 5k on March 22nd, the Towpath Half Marathon on April 6th, the Cleveland 10 Miler on April 26th, the Lake Health Half Marathon on June 15th, the North Olmsted Kiwanis 5k at the beginning of August, the Leave No Trace Half Marathon on August 30th, and the River Run Half Marathon, which I believe is September 7th.
Oh, and since I'll be coaching Girls on the Run again this spring (more on that later), I'll also be running the GOTR 5k in Akron on May 18th.
So, yeah... I can't see being able to do every race that interests me this year... I recognize this is overkill, but part of me just wants to register for every one of them :)
My mindset going into this year is to see what I'm capable of in my first half marathon, then see how much I can improve upon my time later in the year. For marathon training, I stuck with the Hal Higdon novice training program and there's no question it prepared me for the distance and what I should expect on race day. I know a lot of people that use all kinds of different training programs, but I'm thinking I'll stick with what works for me and use his novice program to train for the Pittsburgh Half. My plan would be to start another 12 week training cycle for the Rock 'n' Roll Half in October, but this time I'm thinking I'll try the Hal Higdon intermediate training schedule as this training is specifically geared toward speed, which is something I haven't worked on since high school. While the Rock 'n' Roll Half should be faster for many reasons, including 5 additional months of running under my belt and what is sure to be a flatter course, it would be fun to see how much I might improve using a more speed-focused training schedule.
Two half marathons in one year should be enough, right? So why am I suddenly so determined to run every race I can? And would running this many races be a bad idea? Feel free to share your thoughts on the matter. For now, I'll start with Pittsburgh and plan to play the rest by ear :)
Here's to 2014: The Year of the Half Marathon! Happy Running!
So, I've decided to make this my Year of the Half Marathon. Even though it has been my desire for the last 2 years to run a half marathon, I have yet to really take this goal seriously. So, rather than start running and hope to find a race that fits into my plans for the year, I've decided to register for a race I want to run, then force myself to make it happen. Training for a specific race tends to keep me motivated and on the right track, so I figure it should be easier to stick to my goal... particularly when you spend more than $120 on race registration. I don't know about you, but I'm not a big fan of throwing away money :)
I've spent much of this week doing research on area races, polling friends about their plans for 2014 and connecting with some new people in the running community. Thus far, I'm finding it easy to jump back into the whole running thing and, with a few runs under my belt, I feel like I'm in the right mindset for training.
There's really only one problem at this point... having already run a marathon, I believe I have an overconfident feeling about running a mere 13.1 miles. Don't get me wrong, my ability to complete 26.2 absolutely proves to me that I can finish a half marathon... I'm not at all concerned about the distance. My bigger issue is that I have this crazy idea that I can run a whole bunch of them this year... as if it will be no big deal and my body can handle that kind of beating. For some of these races I have myself convinced that they will be for training purposes only... that I won't race and I'll take the opportunity to work on pacing and getting used to the distance. But, there's not a chance in hell that this is how it will end up playing out. I'm far too competitive for that. If I line up at a starting line and a gun goes off, you better believe I'll be trying to get to that finish line as fast as humanly possible and that, given the opportunity, I will pass every last person I possibly can. This isn't training... this is racing. And I wonder if it's smart to put my body through that kind of run while 'training' for a specific race. I should probably do a little more research on this topic before getting carried away.
Attempting to play this one smart, I've started by registering for just one race... the Pittsburgh Half Marathon on May 4th. A runner friend of mine suggested it and, even though the hills scare the crap out of me, I figure it'll be a fun course and an excuse to take a little weekend trip.
The second race I really want to do is the Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon in Cleveland on October 11th. I heard good things about this race last year and have wanted to do it ever since. I'm not yet registered, but this is definitely on my to-do list this year.
Also on my radar are the Irish Jig & Jog 5k on March 22nd, the Towpath Half Marathon on April 6th, the Cleveland 10 Miler on April 26th, the Lake Health Half Marathon on June 15th, the North Olmsted Kiwanis 5k at the beginning of August, the Leave No Trace Half Marathon on August 30th, and the River Run Half Marathon, which I believe is September 7th.
Oh, and since I'll be coaching Girls on the Run again this spring (more on that later), I'll also be running the GOTR 5k in Akron on May 18th.
So, yeah... I can't see being able to do every race that interests me this year... I recognize this is overkill, but part of me just wants to register for every one of them :)
My mindset going into this year is to see what I'm capable of in my first half marathon, then see how much I can improve upon my time later in the year. For marathon training, I stuck with the Hal Higdon novice training program and there's no question it prepared me for the distance and what I should expect on race day. I know a lot of people that use all kinds of different training programs, but I'm thinking I'll stick with what works for me and use his novice program to train for the Pittsburgh Half. My plan would be to start another 12 week training cycle for the Rock 'n' Roll Half in October, but this time I'm thinking I'll try the Hal Higdon intermediate training schedule as this training is specifically geared toward speed, which is something I haven't worked on since high school. While the Rock 'n' Roll Half should be faster for many reasons, including 5 additional months of running under my belt and what is sure to be a flatter course, it would be fun to see how much I might improve using a more speed-focused training schedule.
Two half marathons in one year should be enough, right? So why am I suddenly so determined to run every race I can? And would running this many races be a bad idea? Feel free to share your thoughts on the matter. For now, I'll start with Pittsburgh and plan to play the rest by ear :)
Here's to 2014: The Year of the Half Marathon! Happy Running!
Thursday, September 5, 2013
What kind of parent do I want to be?
I hate that I haven't written anything in so long. Sadly, whenever I have the time, I find I just don't have much to say. Who wants to read about my lack of motivation? My frustrations with a toddler? My riveting evenings watching tv? Or, better yet, my ridiculous addiction to Candy Crush Saga? I'd likely put myself to sleep just writing about it. But, as much as I love to write, I find it's a heck of a lot easier when I have something to say... something I'm interested in or passionate about. Or maybe something that's got me thinking. And this week's social media craziness has really got me thinking...
Between the madness of the VMAs and blogger moms dueling over proper parenting, I find myself questioning my standards. Which side of the fence do I fall on? What do I stand for and where do I draw the line? Unfortunately, I still haven't sorted it out, but maybe getting my thoughts down in writing will help...
So, the VMAs... I doubt there's anyone that missed it. Whether you watched it live or clicked on one of the million available links to the craziness that is Miley Cyrus, I'm guessing 99% of you have seen it. If not, here's her complete performance (if that's what we're calling it).
Is it weird? Yes. Do I get it? No. Will this performance cause the downfall of our society? Highly unlikely.
The truth is, Miley Cyrus is not the role model I would want for my child. More to the point, I don't know of a single famous person that should be. I don't understand why we expect famous people to be role models in the first place. Sure, it would be nice if every person in the public eye had the same moral standards as those of us trying to raise our kids to respect themselves and others and to make good decisions. But when are we going to learn that 'reality tv' is not reality and that famous people didn't become famous for the sole purpose of raising our children for us? And who's to say that my moral standards are up to par with those of others? I'm guessing there are plenty of parents out there that have no interest in me being their child's role model. But I suppose I get a pass because I'm not making my bad decisions on tv?
Being a blogger myself, I enjoy reading what other people post about... running, parenting, cooking... I like it all. When friends share links to blogs on social media sites, I have a tendency to read them because I trust the judgment of my friends and have an interest in what they're sharing. This week two of my friends posted links and, as it turns out, one actually referenced the other. And not necessarily in a positive light. I read both and, surprisingly enough, agreed with both of them. While they made opposing arguments, I found them both incredibly thought provoking. You should check them out for yourself here...
The first is a model of great parenting. She talks about monitoring her sons' friends on Facebook based on the kinds of things they post. For example, girls posting selfies in their bedrooms, scantily clad and attempting to look sexy? They're unfriended immediately. I read this post and thought "Right on, lady. Way to stay involved in your children's lives." Now scroll a little further to the comments section. Holy hell! But wait... some of these people have a point. Is there a double-standard here? Or are we simply being overly sensitive? How much skin is too much? Are bathing suit shots okay? What if they're not 'trying' to look sexy, but happen to look sexy anyway? Oh geez... it's too much to think about.
The second is also an amazing view on parenting. If we could really protect our children from everything wrong in this world, I'm pretty sure every parent would do it. But, like it or not, it's out there. Our children see it every day. It's on tv, it's in school, and believe it or not, it's in our neighbors' homes and our own backyards. All of the craziness in this world is practically knocking on our own front door. Do we pull the blinds and pretend to not be home? Or do we invite it in with the hope of teaching our children what not to do?
Scary truth, I don't know the answer. And, I'm afraid, no else does either. I often read blogs like these with the hope of keeping myself on the right track when it comes to parenting. I make mental notes of the things I agree with and completely disregard the things I don't. I attempt to keep an open mind about things I do not understand. But all of this feels way over my head and I find myself drowning in parenting advice, suggestions and information.
Thankfully, my son is only three. While I am very much aware that his teenage years are just around the corner, I need to spend my time focusing on the innocent boy that does not yet recognize differences in skin color and has no concept of sexual preference. I need to cling to this age where the most intriguing videos on the internet are animated children's songs, the definition of accessorizing is choosing between Captain America's shield and Superman's cape, and the most beautiful girl in the world is still his mommy.
I have to trust that, as time goes by, I will find a way to work through my insecurities about making the right parenting decisions. That I will be able to figure out how much information is too much and what kinds of things I must shield my child from seeing. That I will grow into the kind of parent I want to be (whatever that might mean) and that, when the time comes, I will know exactly how I feel about these kinds of situations.
For now, all I can take from these bloggers is this: every parent/child/family/situation is different. Each person's history/religion/morals are different and, therefore, lead to different parenting decisions. None of us are exactly the same, and we will never parent in exactly the same way. Neither is wrong... simply different. While it's great to look to others for advice, we still must make the hard decisions ourselves. We must decide what is right for our children and still find a way to respect the opinions of others. Perfect parents don't exist. The best we can hope for is to not screw them up too badly along the way :)
Between the madness of the VMAs and blogger moms dueling over proper parenting, I find myself questioning my standards. Which side of the fence do I fall on? What do I stand for and where do I draw the line? Unfortunately, I still haven't sorted it out, but maybe getting my thoughts down in writing will help...
So, the VMAs... I doubt there's anyone that missed it. Whether you watched it live or clicked on one of the million available links to the craziness that is Miley Cyrus, I'm guessing 99% of you have seen it. If not, here's her complete performance (if that's what we're calling it).
2013 MTV Video Music Awards
Is it weird? Yes. Do I get it? No. Will this performance cause the downfall of our society? Highly unlikely.
The truth is, Miley Cyrus is not the role model I would want for my child. More to the point, I don't know of a single famous person that should be. I don't understand why we expect famous people to be role models in the first place. Sure, it would be nice if every person in the public eye had the same moral standards as those of us trying to raise our kids to respect themselves and others and to make good decisions. But when are we going to learn that 'reality tv' is not reality and that famous people didn't become famous for the sole purpose of raising our children for us? And who's to say that my moral standards are up to par with those of others? I'm guessing there are plenty of parents out there that have no interest in me being their child's role model. But I suppose I get a pass because I'm not making my bad decisions on tv?
Being a blogger myself, I enjoy reading what other people post about... running, parenting, cooking... I like it all. When friends share links to blogs on social media sites, I have a tendency to read them because I trust the judgment of my friends and have an interest in what they're sharing. This week two of my friends posted links and, as it turns out, one actually referenced the other. And not necessarily in a positive light. I read both and, surprisingly enough, agreed with both of them. While they made opposing arguments, I found them both incredibly thought provoking. You should check them out for yourself here...
vs.
The first is a model of great parenting. She talks about monitoring her sons' friends on Facebook based on the kinds of things they post. For example, girls posting selfies in their bedrooms, scantily clad and attempting to look sexy? They're unfriended immediately. I read this post and thought "Right on, lady. Way to stay involved in your children's lives." Now scroll a little further to the comments section. Holy hell! But wait... some of these people have a point. Is there a double-standard here? Or are we simply being overly sensitive? How much skin is too much? Are bathing suit shots okay? What if they're not 'trying' to look sexy, but happen to look sexy anyway? Oh geez... it's too much to think about.
The second is also an amazing view on parenting. If we could really protect our children from everything wrong in this world, I'm pretty sure every parent would do it. But, like it or not, it's out there. Our children see it every day. It's on tv, it's in school, and believe it or not, it's in our neighbors' homes and our own backyards. All of the craziness in this world is practically knocking on our own front door. Do we pull the blinds and pretend to not be home? Or do we invite it in with the hope of teaching our children what not to do?
Scary truth, I don't know the answer. And, I'm afraid, no else does either. I often read blogs like these with the hope of keeping myself on the right track when it comes to parenting. I make mental notes of the things I agree with and completely disregard the things I don't. I attempt to keep an open mind about things I do not understand. But all of this feels way over my head and I find myself drowning in parenting advice, suggestions and information.
Thankfully, my son is only three. While I am very much aware that his teenage years are just around the corner, I need to spend my time focusing on the innocent boy that does not yet recognize differences in skin color and has no concept of sexual preference. I need to cling to this age where the most intriguing videos on the internet are animated children's songs, the definition of accessorizing is choosing between Captain America's shield and Superman's cape, and the most beautiful girl in the world is still his mommy.
I have to trust that, as time goes by, I will find a way to work through my insecurities about making the right parenting decisions. That I will be able to figure out how much information is too much and what kinds of things I must shield my child from seeing. That I will grow into the kind of parent I want to be (whatever that might mean) and that, when the time comes, I will know exactly how I feel about these kinds of situations.
For now, all I can take from these bloggers is this: every parent/child/family/situation is different. Each person's history/religion/morals are different and, therefore, lead to different parenting decisions. None of us are exactly the same, and we will never parent in exactly the same way. Neither is wrong... simply different. While it's great to look to others for advice, we still must make the hard decisions ourselves. We must decide what is right for our children and still find a way to respect the opinions of others. Perfect parents don't exist. The best we can hope for is to not screw them up too badly along the way :)
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
It's been a while...
I've been meaning to post for some time now, but with the craziness that has been my life lately, I wasn't even sure what to write. So much has happened in the two months since my last post, and yet I find myself right back here where I started.
We've made it through another successful season of Girls on the Run. I spent my second season with the team as an assistant coach and loved every minute of it! Our girls were crazy, fun, smart, silly and all-around awesome! And I'm happy to say that I plan to be back for more in the fall.
There are so many things I could say about this past season, but rather than recapping ten weeks with a lot of words, I figure a picture will say it best...
Life at home has finally returned to normal after a chaotic month of trying to figure out where our future would lead us. With the possibility of moving out of state, we struggled with the idea of leaving behind family and friends, all the while thinking about what a fun adventure it would be. Alas, the decision has been made and, while we're disappointed that our 'adventure' was not to be, we're also not sad to be staying in the place where we've built a life we really enjoy. I guess we'll have to come up with a different adventure to focus on.
Which got me to thinking about this post from a year ago. The changes to my 'bucket list' are few and I think it's time to refocus on it.
Run a marathon
Get more involved with a charity
We've made it through another successful season of Girls on the Run. I spent my second season with the team as an assistant coach and loved every minute of it! Our girls were crazy, fun, smart, silly and all-around awesome! And I'm happy to say that I plan to be back for more in the fall.
There are so many things I could say about this past season, but rather than recapping ten weeks with a lot of words, I figure a picture will say it best...
 |
| Team Avon Lake - Spring 2013 |
Which got me to thinking about this post from a year ago. The changes to my 'bucket list' are few and I think it's time to refocus on it.
Learn kickboxing
Write a book
Run my own business
Travel to Europe
Skydive
Start a vegetable garden
Get out of debt
Take a cooking class
Take dance lessons
With my involvement with Girls on the Run, I can officially cross off my desire to get more involved with a charity. I plan to stay as involved as possible for the foreseeable future.
Write a book? Definitely not crossed off yet, but I've started working on it, so I suppose that's better than nothing.
Skydive? Not yet accomplished, but there's a game plan... and it's definitely going to happen.
Get out of debt? Getting there :)
As for the rest, this is as good a time as any to get started...
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
Another proud moment... for my husband!
So, a little over a week ago my husband took his final exam and turned in his final presentation... he officially completed his masters program! And for the last week we've been waiting impatiently to find out his final grades.
On Monday night, the results were finally in. An A- in his final class, which also meant straight As for the entire program.
To my husband, my best friend, my hero: You did it!!! Words can not express how proud I am of you and your accomplishment. You've dreamt of this since before we met and, as much as I've hated giving up so much of our time together, I'm glad to have been a part of this journey for you. You rock!
Love, your wife :)
On Monday night, the results were finally in. An A- in his final class, which also meant straight As for the entire program.
12 classes
~
18 months of reading, studying and writing
~
78 weeks of hard work and dedication
~
Countless hours of personal time relinquished
~
1 MBA
~
1 very proud wife
To my husband, my best friend, my hero: You did it!!! Words can not express how proud I am of you and your accomplishment. You've dreamt of this since before we met and, as much as I've hated giving up so much of our time together, I'm glad to have been a part of this journey for you. You rock!
Love, your wife :)
Thursday, March 7, 2013
A Proud Moment
I can't help myself. I'm insanely proud of it, so I can't be ashamed for wanting to share it, right?
On March 1st I was featured on Garmin's blog for my involvement with Girls on the Run!
When I received the email from Girls on the Run International telling me I'd been selected as February's SoleMate of the Month, I was incredibly flattered. They provided my information to Garmin, a national sponsor of the Girls on the Run SoleMates charity running program, who posted my story (and picture... yikes) on their blog.
And here it is: Garmin Blog
Pretty cool, right? I certainly thought so :)
On March 1st I was featured on Garmin's blog for my involvement with Girls on the Run!
When I received the email from Girls on the Run International telling me I'd been selected as February's SoleMate of the Month, I was incredibly flattered. They provided my information to Garmin, a national sponsor of the Girls on the Run SoleMates charity running program, who posted my story (and picture... yikes) on their blog.
And here it is: Garmin Blog
Pretty cool, right? I certainly thought so :)
I love...
I love Girls on the Run! I've said it before and I'll say it again... it's an amazing program! And this year I've made the leap from Running Buddy to Assistant Coach. And I'm seriously loving every minute!
Being a coach required going to a coach's training class. It means preparing ahead of time for lessons. It means showing up early and staying a few minutes late. It requires the purchase of healthy snacks for each practice. And year end gifts. And often times, money out of our own pockets. It means leading the lessons. And showing up for every meeting with a Girls on the Run attitude. It requires time and energy and a boat load of patience. And dealing with pre-teen girls. All without making a dime. It's a voluntary position... and one I would do every day of the week.
After just one practice, I already love these girls. They're fun and energetic and insanely silly. They're smart and friendly and open to new ideas. I don't remember being that cool when I was that age. But, then again, that's sort of the point, isn't it? At that age, we were all cooler than we ever gave ourselves credit for. We were more awesome than we realized. Maybe nobody told us. Maybe we were too busy focusing on our insecurities to hear the people that did. I was probably 30 years old before I realized I was cool. As coaches, it's our job to make sure these girls know it well before that. They should know it now. And I look forward to spending the next ten weeks making sure they do :)
Being a coach required going to a coach's training class. It means preparing ahead of time for lessons. It means showing up early and staying a few minutes late. It requires the purchase of healthy snacks for each practice. And year end gifts. And often times, money out of our own pockets. It means leading the lessons. And showing up for every meeting with a Girls on the Run attitude. It requires time and energy and a boat load of patience. And dealing with pre-teen girls. All without making a dime. It's a voluntary position... and one I would do every day of the week.
After just one practice, I already love these girls. They're fun and energetic and insanely silly. They're smart and friendly and open to new ideas. I don't remember being that cool when I was that age. But, then again, that's sort of the point, isn't it? At that age, we were all cooler than we ever gave ourselves credit for. We were more awesome than we realized. Maybe nobody told us. Maybe we were too busy focusing on our insecurities to hear the people that did. I was probably 30 years old before I realized I was cool. As coaches, it's our job to make sure these girls know it well before that. They should know it now. And I look forward to spending the next ten weeks making sure they do :)
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