A healthier me: Back at the beginning

Sometimes I don't know how personal to get in the blogosphere, but here it goes. I need to make a lifestyle change. And I need to write about it here to hold myself accountable. Weight is something I've struggled with, and I'm tired of feeling like ish.

It's easy to forgo fitness and grab whatever premade crap is available sitting at a desk or couch blogging and graphic designing. But the excuses stop today. Last fall, I lost 20 pounds, so I know it can be done. But my problem is sustaining the motivation to hit the gym and eat better once I've achieved my goal.

My 30th birthday is in October (yikes) and I want to slim down to commemorate the milestone. But mostly I just want to feel good about myself. Fitting in those skinny jeans wouldn't hurt, either. I'm far from the shape I was in when I was at the gym five days a week and running 5Ks, but I'm determined to get back there.

Dirty 6 Mud Run 2 / Saturday, Sept. 24 2011

Get the essentials: 1. SparkRecipes + Couch-To-5K apps / 2. WSU T-shirt / 3. Moisture-wicking pants / 4. Journal / 5. Water bottle / 6. iPod nano / 7. Supportive shoes

A healthier me

Feeling sluggish, unmotivated and large suck, which is why I've decided to make a lifestyle change. And it starts with working out and eating better.

I realize it's probably not cool to bare one's soul on the Internet like this. But if I put my struggle out there, I can be held accountable and get support. Not having those are the main reasons I tend to slack off.

I'm far from the place when I was at the gym five days a week and running 5Ks, but I'm determined to get back there.

My former trainer stressed the importance of setting goals, so here they are:

• Daily: Work up to 60 minutes of cardio.
• Weekly: Exercise three to five days a week.
• Monthly: Lose inches and pounds.
• Yearly: Run at least one 5K. I have my eye on this.

What keeps you motivated? I'd love to hear your tips, meal plans, exercises, playlists, tricks and anything else that helps you stay on the right track.

Cross City Race: September 2008, Fresno

Susan G. Komen Race For The Cure: November 2008, Fresno

 We raced for my Mom, who is a breast cancer survivor!