Tunnel Vision. Defined as: “the tendency to focus exclusively on a single or limited goal or point of view”.

A lot of people view tunnel vision as a bad thing. And in some instances, it can be. But in the instance of my health and physical fitness? It’s an amazinggggg thing!

I sorta-kinda had counted myself out of the 5k I had planned to do next month due to some health set-backs and overall apathy while dealing with some of life’s other BS. But I’m glad to say my "tunnel vision" goggles have returned (as it pertains to getting in better shape)

See this pic? That's me. RUNNING (jog/trot is more accurate) across the Woodrow Wilson Bridge (MD to VA). The span is 2.-something miles. I did NOT run the entire length, but d@mmit, I DID it. 2 years ago - and 100# heavier - I could have never imagined this for myself. My 1st 5k race is in 3 weeks. I am determined to do it!!

My inner athlete at work

This weekend I headed out with my family for a traipse across the Woodrow Wilson Bridge. The span itself is a little over 2 miles one way. The trail totals 6 miles – there & back, including the bridge span. I hadn’t planned on running at all, but when the urge hit me?

I took off!

Like, didn’t even THINK about running. It just felt…NATURAL. For the first time. EVER.

And I’m so incredibly proud of myself.

I had nearly given up on the idea of being able to get in that 5k race next month, but this was just the encouragement I needed to stick to my plan. Like I said previously – even if I have to crawl over the finish line, I’m going to FINISH. #the end.

My Sweetface...running like the wind!

On another note: Who woulda thunk that my Sweetface 3 year old would serve as my biggest source of encouragement? Her daddy used to be runner, so I guess it’s in her genes. (damn shol aint in mine!) *shrug* But she knows it’s a struggle for me. At one point she said “See? Just like this, Mommy” – and took off running. Then said “COME ON, MOMMY! You can do it! Go Mommy!” How could I NOT find the energy after that??

I have exactly 3 weeks to get my bootay in gear. I have enlisted the help of Jillian Michaels and her “Last Chance” workout DVD to help amp it up a notch. So tonight, I will take my first 30 minute punishment. The REALLY insane part?

I’m looking forward to it.

That blows my mind. Not only that, but I’ve found another 5k race to get under my belt in October. Except this one is going to be funnnnn. (It’s a 5k obstacle course -entitled “Run for ya Lives”. Yeah – running from ZOMBIES! Presumable trying to eat my brains… *lol* Doesn’t get much better than that. Who thought I’d truly ever be excited to run – for any reason other than towards a cupcake truck?!?)

Times, they are a changing. And so is my body. Y’all betta watch out… Size 12 is coming.

WOW!!! I'm so proud of you!! You are doing and have done an AMAZING job!!!!

Your post gave me goosebumps! I am hoping to run someday too. And I am thinking maybe I'll try that Jillian Michaels workout. Great idea!

Best to you, let us know how the 5k goes!

I'm thinking you're going to blow past size 12 on your way down! Congratulations to you on your successes so far--and way to GO!!!

Thanks all! It has been quite the experience (overall). I am STILL struggling to get this last 40+ pounds up off of me, but I'm not going to wait to then to reach some "other" goals. This 5k has always been something I apsired to...

OMG! You are absolutely amazing! Can't wait to hear about your 5K in 3 weeks! You can do it. Keep Rockin your Sleeve! ;)

Way to go!