The Gripka Family: A Mama First

Way back when...when I found out I was pregnant with Tori I dreamed of losing all of my baby weight (plus what I was already carrying around) by running. Now, let me tell you a secret about me...I used to cheat when we had to run a mile or two in P.E. class. I know I know..but I am not a runner. I wanted to learn to enjoy it, like Bryan but not that crazy fast running he does.

I had Tori January 12, 2010..I started running February 28, 2011..yes over 1 year after she was born..PATHETIC!

In February I was talking to my dear friend Sarah Cassady about wanting to learn to run and she suggested the Couch to 5K program. Just 9 short weeks to train your body to run a 5K (3.1 miles) consistently. I downloaded my podcasts. Registered for my first 5K - The Susan G Komen Race for the Cure NW Arkansas. And got to work. 10 weeks later we traveled to Rogers AR for the weekend and I ran my first 5K!

April 30, 2011 Saturday I ran 3.1 miles with 2 women that have been there to support me through everything the last 14 years! Official time 39mins 54seconds and I am still alive to tell about it ;)

I am SO proud to say my two best friends, Kristy Osborne and Sarah Cassady, encouraged me and got me through the race. I am ready to keep running and do another one!

Here are some pictures of our race day...