Katie from Sweat Pink put together a Blog Swap, where she matched bloggers and we each wrote posts for one another.  You can read about it here.  Fortunately for me, I was paired with Holly, who is my #plankaday buddy and who helps me follow directions, sends me reminders and is overall “uber” helpful since I got almost all of this wrong.  I have enjoyed getting to know Holly throughout this process, and here is why ….

Hi, my name is Holly, I blog over at Running and Baking Oh My! I was matched up with Cristina through our #Sweatpink Ambassador programs’ blog swap. I am really excited about this swap, not only do I get to reach out to new readers, this also allows my readers a chance to experience another blogger.I started blogging so I would have a journal of my training from the C25K completion and working towards my first Half Marathon in September, 2012. I am a busy mother to 4 kids. We have two 13-year olds, a 10-year old daughter and my 7-year old son. They keep us busy, I mean, BUSSYY!! Aside from my family, I also work full time. I dream about being a SAHM but I know it’s never going to happen.

So how is it that a busy mom with 4 kids and who works full time, still has time to run? When I looked over my calendar, there was not a spare hour anywhere. Well, it took some convincing (of myself), but I knew that I needed to find something I could do for ME, I needed some Holly time and some girl time. I knew to be a better mom and wife I needed to find something that gave me a breather from life. I found a group of women who trained us on the C25K program. Seven weeks into the nine week program I experienced a hip injury and had to take 2 months off. I was devastated!  I teamed up with a local chiropractor that uses ART Therapy and he fixed me right up. During my 7 weeks of no running I learned a lot. I learned how important cross training is, the importance of stretching/yoga, nutrition, rest, etc.

I am now half way through the 10K to half marathon training program. I love it! I run with a group of about 20 ladies. The accountability and friendships make this adventure so much more meaningful! I can’t wait for the day that I cross that finish line and receive the medal. From that point on I will be a half marathoner!

I have learned some important things through this training process. First and foremost, it is ok to carve out some time that is just for you.  I believe it makes me a better mother, wife and employee. Everyone needs me time. Second, I learned that I can do so much more than I originally thought. I have learned to push my limits and trust my body. I also learned that no goal is too big. If you dream it, you can achieve it….you may experience some hurdles along the way, but if you stick to your guns, you can make it happen!

Thank you Cristina for allowing me to hop over to your blog! I love following you and your blog. I also don’t know how I would fill my nights if it wasn’t for our planking group on twitter! It is truly entertaining and inspiring!

You can find Holly at www.runningandbakingohmy.blogspot.com
Twitter: @running_baking
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/hollylolly

You can read my post on Holly’s blog here.