13.1

Let's just start with the truth: I hate running. Period. Full stop. The end, goodbye.

Disclaimer aside, I am about to start a fitness mission that will end with me at an undisclosed finish line of a 2012 half marathon. The girl who loves her sweets, french fries and fruity drinks is trading trading in her couch time after work for a pair of running shoes. Turning 30 has me thinking that I can no longer use the excuse of "college" and life's darker moments to stay as unhealthy as I have been the last half of my twenties. While at a bar this past weekend for my big birthday bash, I was convinced by a sister and a good friend that running could be apart of my life. Maybe it was the vodka cran talking, but the motivation and determination to never go back on a promise to start struck, and thus a deal and a handshake followed...

Growing up, I spent most of my summers in the pool at 6:00am on the weekdays and at meets on Saturday's. I lovingly blame my carb addiction on these years:) But blame no more, it is time to get back in shape and spend my thirties and beyond living life to it's fullest. Why 2012, you may ask? Well, I am all about getting back into shape the right way. If I can make one in 2011, great, but the goal is to do this with the least injury as possible:)

I have great friends who run 1/2 and full marathons, even one that is in training for an upcoming Ironman- each inspiring me to find the courage I've needed. I am eagerly awaiting the moment when my hate turns into love, as it has yet to be seen. I know it must be coming though!

So from here on out I am getting rid of everything toxic, setting goals and saying goodbye to all things junk and alcoholic (well, maybe a glass of Cabernet or two on special occasions- I wouldn't want to go cold turkey on everything- it's all about the moderation, right?!?!). Here I come 13.1...

Hope for the Best...

Turning 30, sigh. Tomorrow morning at 4:44am I will have lost the most anticipated decade of my youth, my 20's. While I have no desire to go back and relive 21 or 25, even 29, I feel like a part of me has been docked and the new me is heading forth towards a new station. The last ten years have come with their triumphs and sorrows, hope, laughter and love.

In my early twenties, I surrounded myself with fabulous friends, new additions to the family and my wonderful Sigma Kappa sisters. I continued to travel and see new parts of the world. Through a coworker and friend, I was introduced to a Pug puppy that changed my life, adding endless amounts of joy, laughter (he is such a goofball) and love. Hmm, I should probably add that he is not perfect, while he has had his share of stubborn moments and vet visits- I wouldn't trade him for the world! I experienced loss with several family members, the biggest, being my father. A man that I will miss every day of my life; I am incredibly lucky to be surrounded by family, friends and a pug that have carried me through.

Later on, came a big move back to California and the “Ah Ha” moment rediscovering my love of Photography. I have captained Team Jimbo for four, soon to be five years in an Nor. California MS Walk, taken first place in the Snowflake Art Show and thanks to a dear friend had a piece of my work published. Defining what my 30's should be sounds too daunting of a task to think about, but looking back I can see that my 20's were full and without regret. I want this decade to be full of life, adventure, happiness and everything that I love:

* Family * Friends * Photography * Bailey the Pug * Great Food * Great Wine * Hope *

I am starting this Blog to share what I love with the ones that I love and in the hope of documenting a new decade. Hope the Best is spread across my family's crest and it's only fitting that it's part of what defines me. So here I come, “30, Flirty and Thriving,” I can't wait to see what you have in store for me and I am sure there will be a lot of love, laughter and hope along the way...