Standing at the Start Line of 2013

While I haven’t been running lately, I made a decision the other day that the best way to start 2013 would be to start it with a run. So, this morning I bundled up and headed out for a chilly run.

Even though it was after 9am by the time I got out, there was hardly anyone on the streets. Definitely a holiday morning! I took a random route running through Battery Park City, Tribeca and the Financial District. It was a good run, for being the first time I’ve put on my running shoes in over a month. Great to get out there in the cool air to start the New Year!

Before I headed out I caught up on Twitter and read the great news that Oiselle announced the signing of Lauren Fleshman as a sponsored athlete and business partner! It’s a great partnership that will be really exciting to watch develop. You can read about it all HERE.

Speaking of Oiselle, not only did I wear my favorite Happy Hoodie (above) on my first run of the year this morning, but also my very favorite running top – the Rundelicious top! Super cute, comfortable, warm and the perfect length. Plus, it has a zip pocket on the back!

At the start of a new year, as we’re all well aware, it’s a tradition to make resolutions and set goals for the coming year. More often than not it seems resolutions are forgotten or brushed aside within a few weeks, probably because it’s easy to let life get in the way. Funny how that works, isn’t it? We try to make our life better by making resolutions yet the every day makes it difficult to follow through.

I’ve decided not to make resolutions because of this. But, also because I think life can pass by in a flash and it’s when I make plans that I’m more likely to accomplish things, I did come up with a few goals for 2013. One thing I’ve learned is that it’s important to quantify goals, hopefully I’ve set them up so that they’re attainable.

Running

As I ran 6 races in 2012, I hope to run at least 6 in 2013. Three which I have my sights set on are the Riverside Park Hot Chocolate, the NYRR AHA Wall Street Run and the NYRR Mini 10K – one of my favorite races. We’ll see what else comes up during the year. My hope is that I’ll set a few PR’s this year but I also need to do my best to get through another year without a stress fracture! Keeping up with strength training should help!

Fitness Classes

Now that I’ve made it a year without a new stress fracture, I’m ready to try new things. Trying new classes and experiences is key for staying excited and interested! Keeps things fresh! This year I’m up for trying new things like SurfSet, a proper spinning class (I’ve only taken one class if you can believe it!) and possibly even CrossFit! We’ll see what else!

Cooking

I’ve been slacking lately in the kitchen. I do enjoy cooking and trying new healthy recipes, but I haven’t been doing much of that the last few months for various reasons. I’m hoping that’ll change in 2013 and I’d like to try 4 new recipes each month, whether it be a healthy coffeecake like the one below that I made while my parents were in town, or a stew or new salad. I think both Woody and I are getting a bit bored with the rotating menu that we’ve been eating lately!

Connect

Something else I haven’t been very good at lately is staying in touch with friends and family. Life is too short and unpredictable so another goal is to reach out to friends or family at least four times a month. Whether it be by email, phone, letter or in person.

Explore

I do love to explore this city and the world – it’s the best way to learn about history, others and myself. I want to continue to travel starting with Savannah later this month, a trip to Minneapolis for my nephew’s 5th birthday and Denver in March, perhaps a weekend trip to Philly later in the Spring and who knows where else.

2013 is going to be a big year for us, so while I’m slightly nervous about all that it holds, I’m also excited to see how it all turns out!

• How did you start the new year?
• Do you make resolutions or goals?
• What are some of your goals for the year?

************

Today’s workout -

• Run