Last Friday, I officially joined the in the 30’s age group. I turned 31 years old. In all honesty, I like being this age. I am more comfortable in my own skin than I have been in ages. I know who I am, and I am comfortable with that fact.
Last year, when I turned 30, I made a goal to reclaim Rachel. I heard tales that once you turn 30 years old, everything is harder (weight loss, energy, running… life!). I was bound to prove that saying FALSE.
Here I was: 30 years old, 6 months post partum, a crazy, stressed out, overtired Mom to three little boys… with a crazy goal of reclaiming ME! I was ambitious with many goals to accomplish: weight loss (weigh 131lbs); fitness (run further & faster); faith (grow closer to Christ); family (be the best wife & mom I am called to be).
Upon reflection, I know I did not reach all my goals. However, I am super proud of all that I accomplished this past year… and what this coming year holds!
~ Weight loss Accomplishments & Goals ~
I have lost over 20lbs last year. At my annual physical, in April 2010, I weighed in at 168. This year’s check up (May 2011) I weighed in a 145. Fully clothed (jeans, socks, shoes, jacket)! I am super excited and super proud of that accomplishment.
I am making peace with the number on the scale. But to say that I don’t have any weight loss goals for this year would be a lie. I would love to lose an extra 5-10lbs to help me reach a healthy BMI. My goal for this year is to be “normal/healthy’” on the BMI scale. I also would like to lose an extra 10-15 lbs this year to put me at my pre-Children weight.
~Fitness Accomplishments & Goals ~
I considered myself a runner before my 30th birthday. I enjoyed running. I was not the fastest runner, as I was still easing back into running from the birth of my third son (c-section).
My first run with my iPod/Nike+ (birthday gift) was a quick 2.14 mile romp near our house. I ran a 11:10 min/mile. I was super proud of that number!
My most recent recorded run was on my 31st birthday. I ran 4.64 miles with an average pace of 9:10 min/mile. I can run twice the distance much faster!
I run 2 minutes per mile FASTER than I did this time last year!
I continued running and challenged myself in year 30 with road races. I ran a hilly 5K in September, my third half-marathon in October, a trail run 5 mile race in April, and another 5K in April.
My fitness goals for year 31 are to continue with my running. I would LOVE to run another half marathon this year… and possibly challenge myself to running a FULL Marathon!! I am adding strength to my workouts to help strengthen and tone my 31 year old body.
~ Faith & Family ~
I am still juggling the delicate balance of being the wife and mother that God has called me to be. Heck, I still struggle being the WOMAN God has called me to be. I am always learning, willing to grow, and molding into who He has called me to be.
My family goal for year 31 is to slow down and cherish the moments spent with friends and family. Love more. Laugh More. Live each moment to the fullest.
My faith goal is to continue to spend time in the Word daily. Simple, right? I choose to place my thoughts on Christ and seek him daily/first throughout my day.
Happy belated 31st birthday to me!
Cheers to this coming year being full of laughter, love and cheer!
Laila @OnlyLaila says
Rachel you are such an inspiration to me!! I turn 30 this year and I have a long list of things I want to accomplish. Here’s to life in our 30s!
Amanda says
This makes me smile. So very proud of you and the amazing things you have accomplished. You were, are and continue to be my inspiration daily to continue to be the best me for myself, my marriage and my boys. As well as continuing to strive to meet my own fitness goals. Here’s hoping year 31 is more amazing than year 30! Much love Rach!
Rachel says
Thank you SO SUPER De-DUPER Much, friend!! HUGS!
Tina@GottaRunNow says
You accomplished some great things last year. Hope this next year is even more wonderful!