Despite the intense winter weather, I managed to make it to the gym yesterday. I successfully ran a 5k!! I have never been more excited to hug my husband... sweat and all!! Granted, my time was not competitive, and I did run on a treadmill (I'm told that's easier than on the pavement...). Nonetheless, I completed the miles. Tomorrow, I can focus on getting a little faster and possibly going outdoors (at least when the snow melts).
For tonight, I will revel in the glory of crossing the finish line.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Week One
The first week of the New Year went really well for me and my resolutions. My motivation was high for working out and running. I was able to run 2.5 miles on Friday. Although I still have a ways to go to reach my 5k goal, I am proud of my progress. I know a 5k seems like an easy feat for many people, but to me it's a goal I've had for years. It may only be 3.1 miles, but I seem to always give up or quit around 2 miles. My 2.5 mile mark this week is a major accomplishment.
As for my small good deeds for others, I struggled with this some days this past week. The first few days back to school were so hectic and busy. I focused so much on doing my job and teaching 14 second graders, I know I missed opportunities to do something for someone else. One afternoon, I did get the chance to keep a friend's baby so his mom could rest. She is six months pregnant and has not been feeling well. I knew she needed a break, so I offered to pick up the baby for a few hours after school. Not only did this help the family, I thoroughly enjoyed spending this time with the little guy. There is nothing in the world that compares to the genuine joy of a young child. It's amazing to watch children learn about their world and to see them grow. His excitement to see me and play at my house for a short while was so rewarding. I loved every minute.
My budget resolution is taking a backseat until payday at the end of the month... so those updates will follow later. Too much spending at Christmas on a teacher's monthly pay schedule kind of ruins January's budgeting attempts.
This week will be a challenge for my resolutions. Sunday night, seven inches of snow fell in our small little Carolina town. This may not sound like much, but around here, it's a crippling amount. Already, we've missed two days of school. The roads are in poor condition, so the gym is the last place I want to go. Luckily, my husband is also a teacher, and we've been at home together. I guess I will be searching for small good deeds around the house and the neighborhood...
As for my small good deeds for others, I struggled with this some days this past week. The first few days back to school were so hectic and busy. I focused so much on doing my job and teaching 14 second graders, I know I missed opportunities to do something for someone else. One afternoon, I did get the chance to keep a friend's baby so his mom could rest. She is six months pregnant and has not been feeling well. I knew she needed a break, so I offered to pick up the baby for a few hours after school. Not only did this help the family, I thoroughly enjoyed spending this time with the little guy. There is nothing in the world that compares to the genuine joy of a young child. It's amazing to watch children learn about their world and to see them grow. His excitement to see me and play at my house for a short while was so rewarding. I loved every minute.
My budget resolution is taking a backseat until payday at the end of the month... so those updates will follow later. Too much spending at Christmas on a teacher's monthly pay schedule kind of ruins January's budgeting attempts.
This week will be a challenge for my resolutions. Sunday night, seven inches of snow fell in our small little Carolina town. This may not sound like much, but around here, it's a crippling amount. Already, we've missed two days of school. The roads are in poor condition, so the gym is the last place I want to go. Luckily, my husband is also a teacher, and we've been at home together. I guess I will be searching for small good deeds around the house and the neighborhood...
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Resolutions for Twenty-Eleven
The beginning of a new year is bittersweet... a time of reflection on the previous year and a time of anticipation for new things to come. The past year was amazing for me and my husband. In just 365 days, we made unforgettable memories with new friends and old, bought a house, enjoyed a week at the beach, worked hard in our careers, and the list goes on... I'm proud of how much we accomplished in 2010.
With the new year comes new goals. My primary goal, along with so many others, is to get myself in shape. I started the Couch to 5k running plan several weeks ago, but the holidays did nothing but interrupt my progress. This year, I plan to be ready to run, hopefully competitively, a 5k in April in Clemson. The Easter Bunny Run sounds friendly enough...
Additionally, I want to really stick with a budget this year. Historically, I am not a financially wise gal (I get it honest). This may be the most difficult goal for me, but I'm determined to make improvements.
My last goal for this year is to take advantage of those little daily opportunities to do nice things for other people. I must admit I am not the most thoughtful person, so I am planning to make an effort everyday to help someone else.
By keeping a blog-- and hoping someone reads it occasionally--, I can be more accountable for my resolutions. I look forward to updating my followers on my journey to a bikini-ready body, a money-wise budget, and a considerate mind.
Happy New Year!!
With the new year comes new goals. My primary goal, along with so many others, is to get myself in shape. I started the Couch to 5k running plan several weeks ago, but the holidays did nothing but interrupt my progress. This year, I plan to be ready to run, hopefully competitively, a 5k in April in Clemson. The Easter Bunny Run sounds friendly enough...
Additionally, I want to really stick with a budget this year. Historically, I am not a financially wise gal (I get it honest). This may be the most difficult goal for me, but I'm determined to make improvements.
My last goal for this year is to take advantage of those little daily opportunities to do nice things for other people. I must admit I am not the most thoughtful person, so I am planning to make an effort everyday to help someone else.
By keeping a blog-- and hoping someone reads it occasionally--, I can be more accountable for my resolutions. I look forward to updating my followers on my journey to a bikini-ready body, a money-wise budget, and a considerate mind.
Happy New Year!!
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