into developmental

AJ tried out for the developmental gymnastics team and was accepted! She was a full year younger and full head shorter than the other girls. They typically start girls at 4 (or close to) so we are very stoked that they are ready to take her on already!

My pull-up journey

The last time I set a personal goal was in the winter 2011/12. It was to run 13.1 miles. I made it to 10 mi when I found out I was pregnant. I have yet to check off that goal 4 years later. I continued to plug away at exercise through pregnancy, and AJ's infancy and toddler years, but it was aimless and not enjoyable. I realized this past summer it was because I wasn't working towards anything. So in Aug I tiptoed my way back into strength training, something I love and am good at, but had gotten away from over the past several years. At some point in Sept, I realized I was still drifting and needed a goal.

The pull-up - something that represents excellent upper body strength, that few women can do, and that even fewer can do several of - something that badass women can do. I had set my sights on it a few times but ultimately never put in the work and failed. I finally achieved that goal last week and can already do several pull-ups with short breaks in-between and 3 chin-ups in a row.

My pull-up passion has lit a fire in me that has been smoldering a long time. I have now set my sights on my 2016 goals: a pistol squat and a free-standing handstand. I've already started working on both but I expect they will take several months, possibly all year to achieve.

I hope each of you sets a goal for yourself in 2016 (fitness or otherwise) and that you work towards achieving it. I am so looking forward to this new year!

(This video isn't very good but it was my last pull-up today and I was tired.)

Happy New Year 2016

So life has gotten in the way of posting for a LONG time! AJ turned 3 a month and a half ago. She is awesome - smart, strong, sassy, sweet. She is a budding superstar gymnast. She started writing her full name and riding a 2-wheeled bike this fall (~2-3 months before her birthday!). She is a gifted artist and loves doodling people and spending time with her best friends (mom and dad).