2013 in Review

2013 – phew, what a year! (Yes, I know we're 2 months in 2014, don't judge me!)

I had the best intentions to blog more often last year but life just got in the way! It would have been nice to document the year, but that’s ok, I wouldn't have it any other way, it was my most fulfilling year on a personal level to date and I have the amazing people in my life; my husband, family, close circle of friends and the awesome Run With Life crew to thank!
Plus, being a lousy blogger gives me something to work on for 2014 – a year in which I have a few crazy, life changing plans and don’t want to miss blogging about – but more about that later.

So a quick re-cap of the year that was 2013:

-       I changed jobs in February – a massive game changer for me – a huge weight was lifted off my shoulders - I felt like I had so much more freedom and actually have a work/life balance now.

-       Ran a PB for Run for the Kids – 7 minutes faster than the previous year which was 602 metres shorter.

-       Trained for and ran my first half marathon on the Gold Coast in July in 01:52 – well under my initial goal of sub 02:00.
-     Two of my closest friends gave birth to their first babies - I became an 'aunty' to the two most beautiful bubs on the planet!

-       Completed a second 12 week training program for the Melbourne Marathon half and finished in 01:46 – 6 minutes faster than 3 months earlier.

-       Completed two 12 Week MP Challenges where I further improved my mental health, relationship with food and body composition.

-       Was picked to be a ‘real woman’ in a Pacific Magazines ‘Bonds for Boobs’ campaign – my first ever photoshoot! Was a massive risk to stand up there in my bra and undies and know that alot of people I knew would possibly see it, but was so much fun and was great for my self esteem. (The campaign ran in New Idea, Who, Women’s Health and a few other titles)

-       Booked a ‘fitness style’ photo shoot my sister, Mel for the end of the second Challenge for the year – it’s always been a goal of my to get in the best shape I can and document so I can look back one day and be proud of how hard I worked.  In hindsight, I didn't give 100% in the lead up and I didn't have the physique I originally had in mind but I was happy with how my body looked, the photos look great and it was a great experience to do it with Mel – we had a great time on the day!

-       Took a much needed break with my husband in Hawaii, we had an amazing 10 days soaking up the sun, relaxing and exploring the islands.

I was so lucky to have had such a great year, unfortunately the year ended with a huge loss to our family. On December 20, 2013, we lost our beloved grandfather. He passed away at age 88 – a life well lived and the end to a couple of months of suffering and while we were able to take comfort in this, it did take its toll on my family, especially so close to Christmas. As Mel always says, everything happens for a reason, and I believe it has provided me with the inspiration and motivation to live a life with no regrets - and I can't wait for all I've got planned for 2014!

Here’s a quick video of my 2013 in pictures, thanks Flipagram!