My First Post!

This blog is my attempt to make myself accountable for getting in great physical shape this year, including being able to run a half-marathon or marathon by fall 2005. I've been in excellent shape before, between the births of my first and second children, so I basically know what it involves, but just need to actually DO it again. I am 41 years old, so I really can't coast along anymore and rely on my youth to keep me healthy. The following things serve as my motivations for getting in good shape:
1) I want to set a good example for my children, ages 2 and 6. They're currently slim and active, and I want them to continue that way throughout their lifetimes.
2) My father died of cancer this year after a lifetime of alcohol abuse, cigarette use, unhealthy eating, and little exercise. Having seen what he went through, I want to do all I can to avoid the same fate.
3) I know from past experience that I FEEL better, sleep better, am more confident, etc. when I am at a healthy weight and exercising regularly.
4) I can't deny that I also want to look better and be able to pick out clothes based on what I like rather than what I think will make me look slimmer. I want to be able to take my son swimming without being embarrassed about how I look in a bathing suit (although maybe that never goes away!).
5) My blood pressure has crept a little high this year after a lifetime of always being in the healthy range. I don't want to have to go on medication for this if I can help it.
6) My husband and I both seem better able to stick to our workout schedules, healthy eating, etc. if we are both trying to get fit at the same time. For all the reasons I want my fitness to be better, I feel the same way about his fitness. I want to spend a long, healthy lifetime with him!
I plan to regularly post my weight, measurements, blood pressure (my husband is an EMT, so he can take this for me whenever I want!), workouts, and perhaps photos of me in a bathing suit (if I feel brave) along with my plans, goals, and feelings as I undertake this endeavor.
Here's to new beginnings!