My 2 oldest and my friend and I after a recent 5k
Another birthday has passed. Another wrinkle (or more) added to my collection. Every year, it’s the same ‘ol record I play in my head… I want to get in shape, live more in the present, live an active lifestyle, and be more patient.
This year was different because last year’s goals were permanent lifestyle changes. I feel that with age I’ve found a good place. As a mom (and I’ve said this before) I’m living for me but more importantly, to be an example to my sons.
Lead a healthy lifestyle by example
This year, I’ve started to incorporate my sons into my healthy lifestyle – not just me taking them to their sports. My oldest ran his first half marathon with me (at age 11), while Boy #2 (age 9) has run two 5k races with Boy #1 and I this month. We go on 10 mile bike rides together and run sprints at the nearby high school track. They get annoyed that I’m still faster than they are, but I love it as well as every minute of our time together being healthy and having fun.
My new puppy, Ruby has been a ton of work to add to my already crazy life, but what I’ve realized is that having a big dog requires a more active lifestyle – that is if you choose to own a healthy and happy dog. I take her for a morning and an evening walk. We play catch with her in the yard, bring her to various sports practices and have made her health and wellness part of our life. After all, we want her to be around for a long time.
So when I look at these changes, I realize that health and wellness for our sons is more than just taking them to soccer practice…it’s about leading a healthy life as an example to them.
