In the early part of the year we prepared for a move to another state for a two year period of time for my job. While a move to another state might not be so terrible we were going to be splitting up the family to make this happen. The kids and I would be moving 800 miles while my husband stayed here for his job. The kids would be with me during the school year because I couldn't be without them. They would then come back to Wisconsin for the summer to spend with their dad. We knew there were going to be challenges with maintaining a marriage and family from 800 miles away but we knew there was much to be gained from this. During this process people speculated John and I were getting divorced and this decision was all some people could talk about. This couldn't have been further from the truth and it hurt me that people would spread these rumors. During the 8 months this was being planned I was a wreck. I knew in my heart this was right but also wondered if we could make it through. In the end the move didn't happen and I fell apart. My husband was an amazing support through this. He held my hand when I cried and helped me move on.
I discovered running this year. I went from barely exercising and not being able to run a block to finishing a half marathon in November. In all this I discovered a me I didn't know existed. I became less concerned with the little stuff and just started living. I became a more confident me. I am setting a good example for my kids and husband. In many ways running saved me from this crazy year. I am planning at least three more half marathons for 2014 and I hope to run the Chicago marathon in the fall.
This is me right before the finish line of the half marathon and there was so much emotion at this very moment. It brings tears to my eyes as I look at this and relive this moment.
This is John, Kenzie and I on Thanksgiving after running with myTeam triumph. It was a great experience and even better was that the three of us did it together.
I realized who my true friends were this year. There are those friends who knew when I needed something before I could even say anything. I am grateful for the friends who celebrated my victories as if they were their own. I am so grateful for these special ladies that have been part of my life for many years and even though we may not see each other as often as we like we always pick up like we never missed a beat. Sadly during this there were people I thought were friends that rarely checked in. I learned that sometimes people will take advantage of you and will assume you will always be there for them but suddenly go missing when you need them.
My husband and I said goodbye to a big dream of ours. This challenged our marriage to the core. We were forced to be honest with each other. We realized that a higher power has a plan for us and it wasn't what we had thought. While we still don't have the answers we need we do realize that letting go was exactly what we needed. Letting go helped us to realize what could be.
My hubby and I in Chicago at the Christmas parade.
I was able to give back to my parents this year and it was one of the best experiences ever. They sacrificed for years as we grew up to make sure we had what we needed. There was never any shortage of love and to this day they are still my biggest supporters. While I can never repay them for all they have done, I hope this summer was a start.
2013 wasn't my favorite year but I learned so much about myself in the process. I learned the importance of being true to myself. I learned that love is a pretty amazing thing and in the end sometimes it's all we really need. I learned that family is an amazing thing and I am so thankful for the family we have made. Here's to a great 2014 for all my family and friends!
