What A Difference!

I started the couch to 5k running program the first time back in 2008. I was overweight, on an expensive weight loss program and needed a way to get active. Trudging through each session was hard. There were days that I wasn't sure if I would make it to the end. I did. I ran my first 5k the day after my best friend died. All of the emotions of my horrible loss ran through me as I struggled to make the finish line. My sister ran with me and her encouragement kept me running to the very end. I know that I made my BFF proud because I stuck it out. I started running 5Ks in her memory after that. You see, she was supposed to be my running buddy. She was 7 1/2 months pregnant when she died. After she had her little girl, she was going to join me in running. I had a memorial shirt made and it was my race day shirt. Since then, life is very different. I am overweight again, but in recovery from food addiction. I am going through the couch to 5k program again, but what amazes me is this: I am running faster now than ever before! My first 5k, I was down to 145 lbs but I ran slow...about 3.2 mph. I am currently 185 and running 4.1 mph. How is it possible that I can run faster now, carrying an extra 40 pounds?! The only difference is what I eat. I no longer eat sugar, wheat, processed foods, junk food, or fast food. I am healthier now than I have been since I was a kid. What a difference healthy eating makes! And not just healthy, but clean eating. This is one lifestyle change that is permanent. I look forward to my first 5k of 2013. I will be wearing my special memorial race day shirt and I am guessing that I will be making a new personal record. :D I just might have to encourage Doc to be at the finish line so I have an extra celebration buddy.