Reflections for the start of a new year

At this time of year we reflect on what the past year has meant. We examine a year's worth of victories and defeats, good moments and bad. I've recently spent time thinking about my goals for 2011 and what has motivated me in 2010.

What I discovered is that it isn't the 'what' that motivated me as much as the 'who.'

So here's a shout-out to those that have kept me going on the road to fitness in 2010:

My fellow bloggers- all are remarkable women, but Carla's posts leave me laughing and her personal emails to me always let me know that I've done something right. We all need a cheerleader!

Chief Caviness, Senior Master Sgt. McCabe and Maj. Prindle - these guys are die-hard runners. They show up at our Warrior Runs with big smiles and remind me that despite the pain I think I feel, running can be fun.

Carrie Baker- first she beats me. I appreciate the challenge. Next, she keeps the Seymour Johnson running club informed. I've learned so much from her- pickle juice to ward off cramps, chocolate milk after a race to rejuvenate, hey did you know that there's a race next weekend? She's a great organizer for the club who expects little and provides a lot.

Col. Randy Ogden- yep, that's my boss. No, I'm not brown-nosing. He gets it. He promotes it. He lives it. You gotta love that in a boss!

Lts. Kirchhoff and Bopp- they started me on this path a year ago with a simple "Come on. You can do it." Katie Bopp won the women's 5K at Dover last November. She was probably a mile ahead of me. I still couldn't come close to touching her today, but I'm closer than I was a year ago, and I feel great!

To all of you who read this blog and all of you who come to my office with your victories and near misses. Thanks for letting me know that it makes a difference.

I've got some big plans in store for 2011 AND I've already started making some HUGE changes for the purpose of health and fitness. I can't wait to share my goals and new developments with you, but for now I'll just wish you the happiest, healthiest and safest holiday season! Till 2011!