I cannot even believe I finally checked off #35 on my 101 in 1001! You do not even know how long this goal has been on my bucket list. Probably since I quit smoking, which was about 7 or so years ago! holy moly!

My Running Journey.

I wanted to do something to alleviate stress after I quit smoking, so I decided to try running. I have some pretty serious runners in my family (shout out to Mike & Tara! Heyyy!), whom I’ve always admired. In the beginning I would look forward to my runs after work. I could see myself improving and I felt good. I started the Pod Runner series a little before our wedding (2009), but had a hard time keeping up with it. Due to the nature of my business, things can get pretty hectic between the months of May and October, so it was hard for me to find the time to be consistent. Once I had Cailyn, it was even harder! Last April, my husband & I signed up for the Color Me Rad 5k (which I blogged about HERE) and had a blast. We ended up signing up for 3 more 5k races after that – Westfield’s Flat Fast 5k, Bright Nights 5k, & the Ugly Sweater Run.  That was it. I made up my mind to finally cross the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day Road Race off my list! It was now or never.

Let me tell you, it was tough. I don’t know how many of you are familiar with the race, but it’s pretty hilly for the first 3 miles. I gave myself a goal of an hour and a half and managed 1:26! It may not be the best time, but I’ll take it! baby steps right? As hard as it was, and as much as I pushed myself, I am so proud to say I finally did it! 🙂

I do regret not taking more photos, but I decided to just live the moment instead!! (& drink some beer 😉 )

#35 CHECKITY CHECK!!!