Transformation Tuesday with Julie

Hi there! I haven't done a transformation Tuesday in awhile so here goes!
My friend Julie started her running journey last year and has come so far! I did an interview with her about her transformation. I can't say enough how amazing she looks. I will say HARD WORK PAYS OFF! Julie is a pure example of determination and dedication. I am honored she let me interview her!

1. Why did you decide to get into running? Did anyone inspire, motivate you? My best friend made me agree to sign up for the Run or Dye 5k with the Bridesmaids in her wedding party. I was very reluctant because I’ve never been able to run a mile in my life. I didn’t think I could do it. I did the Couch to 5k program and never looked back with her support and motivation.  I am so grateful for it.

2. What 3 words would you say describe your running? Difficult, renewing, & peaceful.

3. When you first set out on your running venture, what was your goal? My first goal was to be able to run the entire 5k without taking any walking breaks.

4. What is your goal this year? ( has it changed from your original goal)? This year my goal is to run a half marathon. Eek!

5.  Top 3 running songs. We run the night (Havana Brown & Pit Bull), Heroes (Alesso with Tov Lov), & I lived by One Republic.

6. What do you love / hate most about running? I love being able to take time out of my day to be alone with myself. I always come back so clear minded after a run no matter what is going on. I hate getting dressed and out the door. Once I’m out the door, it’s amazing. Before that sometimes I manage to talk myself out of a run.

7.  1 year later... how do you feel vs how you felt a year ago.  I’m still shocked that I can run a mile let alone 6-7 miles comfortably. I’ve lost about 75lbs from walking, running and eating healthier in the last 4 years. It still is surprising how much my body changed and what I can do. Things I didn’t even think were possible are now so attainable.

True determination. It's real. It's out there. I'm so excited for Julie's goals this year and I can't wait to see what lies ahead for her!! 

Autumn's Bridal Run

Saturday was Run or Dye AKA Autumn's bridal run. It was a fun run 5k. Weather was nice and breezy. Perfect running weather! Our shirts came out great! Us girls had our socks, leis, and to cool for you sunglasses! Fabulous was there too, with her daughter doing her first 5k! How exciting!  

Running was a little difficult this race, a lot of people were walking and most of them probably weren't runners/ walkers who have done 5k's. They were more than likely doing it for the color fun! Weaving in and out of people got tricky at times, and I ended up with a terrible cramp. (my fault, I didn't drink enough water). I kept running though. Held my side and ran on. The bride to be, sisnlaw finished first in our group! Woo!! Then we all followed behind! 

I think I was the cleanest of all the girls! Not sure how that happened, but in a way I am glad. Clean up was no fun! A day later and the girls still have color on them!! HA! 

Super proud of little Fabulous! 7 year old doing a 5k! Way to go!! Plus she looked super cute!! Her mommy has totally inspired her! Just like she inspires me! Love you Fabulous!! 

     Since I am a fire wife, and the run was in the city that my fireman works for, I felt it was only right that I took a picture by the engine. (which he has told me is their back up engine). So what, still an engine. 

    After our run we went to a steak house and I had a big ol' juicy burger! With water of course! I know, I know, not the healthiest choice.. but I earned it. Will run for food they say! 

    Overall I had a wonderful time with the girls doing what I LOVE doing! And I couldn't be happier to have friends who share the same love for running that I do. Without them keeping me motivated and inspired I would not be the runner that I am today. I love you girls!!! XOXO 

 

Run Down

This fire wife here hasn't ran this week. BOO! Between his schedule and me getting a stomach bug I haven't done much of anything. The house is a mess. I just want to run, but don't want to over do it. I need to get better and to feel better. I can't stand being ill, it throws my running off.  I finally feel like running 3 to 4 miles is easy peasy, then get sick, it knocks me back down. Very frustrating!
I have a color run 5k on Saturday with my sisnlaw and her bridal party.  I am very excited for a fun run! (Fingers crossed that I am 100% better). Sisnlaw made shirts and all! She's crafty like that! Me, not so much. I can't wait to rock these shirts.  How many of you prefer making outfits for runs?

Super cute shirts huh?! I think so!! I'll be sure to post more pictures after Saturday's race. Stay tuned!