How I’ve Changed in the Last Two Years

I touched on some of this in my reintroduction post. But well, 2013, 2014, and 2015 have truly helped redefine me. First, a quick recap of 2013, which will help in understanding 2014 and 2015.

In 2013 I decided to run 13 half marathons… then through in the mix, a sprint triathlon. The training was time consuming. The time alone with myself, was eye opening. I learned a lot about myself, my priorities and what is important to me. I also lost my grandfather, my best friend that year. He had been sick for a while, but that didn’t make losing him any easier. Towards the end of 2013, I realized I wasn’t happy in my marriage. I did complete my running goals.

In the beginning of 2014 my marriage ended. I sold my house and moved. I changed jobs, traveled to 3 cities in 2 weeks for work, brother’s wedding, and work. I chaired the annual Komen race as a volunteer. All before the first week in May. After that, I crashed. Then, I slowly started to regroup. I spent more time with friends, I didn’t make fitness a priority although it should have been. I just focused on finding peace and happiness and learning a new job. I started learning and practicing self-care. I spent lots of time with my pup.

Then, I stumbled into my greatest love. We both agree we weren’t looking for what we have when we met, but, as soon as we met, we knew we belonged together and our lives would never be the same again.

Work remained busy. I still worked very part time with my old job finishing up a research project and the papers associated with it.

On to 2015… hoping for a calmer year, we spent New Year’s Eve on the strip and then, the whirlwinds began. Right into a fundraising event for work, edits on papers for publication, living life and reigniting the fitness part of my life. I ran the Star Wars Rebel Challenge in January and Surf City in February.

Summer hit, and 2 new events were added to my plate at work, final edits for papers… and life didn’t slow down. Now, events are over for 2015, and we are right into programs, and 2016 events! Two of my 4 papers have been accepted for publication, YAYAYAYAYAY!!!!!! And, life is amazing!!! I spent some great time with my brother this summer as well. Ran another half in October, and set a PR at an 11k event.

My BF is now joining me in fitness and running, which makes life easier… and, to keep things busy, we are moving at the end of November!!!!

So… how have I changed… I have grown exponentially. I have become patient, kind, and focused on happiness. I have realized life is too short for drama and negativity. I spend time with those that are important to me, focus on my health and happiness. I make time for fun, and always make time for myself. I have embraced natural health, making my own cleaning supplies, essential oils and foods to keep me happy and healthy with fewer chemicals. I am refocusing my fitness and running goals, prioritizing my health. Increasing my racing, and falling in love with running again.

Well… that’s my last two years… and here I am!! Next time: 10 Facts About Me and 5 Things I Can’t Live Without.