And finally ... Introducing Kristen

I have a confession.  Here, come closer and I'll tell you what it is.  Ready?

I am not a runner.

Now before you start to get all motivational on me and object with the, "If you run, then you are a runner" speech, let me clarify something.  

I'm ok with not being a runner.

I mean, running is ok - and don't get me wrong... I can certainly get pumped and engage in busting embarrassing- but- I- don't- care- dance moves when a good beat comes through my ear buds over the Pandora Katy Perry station.  But you guys, I am an exerciser.  Really what that means, is that in all my life of getting exercise through organized sports teams (mainly volleyball and softball), life these days has really put a limit on what is available to me for exercise.  I mean, is it just me, or are organized sports for adults harder to come by than it was in high school and college?  And sure, there's the membership fee you can pay to join a gym (which I've done), but in reality, when it comes to responsibly budgeting a family of four on one income, sometimes I'd rather buy a cute  babyGap outfit and find an alternative to exercise than paying the monthly membership to the gym (so sue me!).

Enter Linsey in 2010.  It was her and her Ragnar idea that sparked my interest running in the first place (because remember?  I had always chosen the most minimal run intensive team sports of volleyball and softball in the past).  I needed a goal to bounce back after having my first baby, and since Ragnar was 5 months away at that time, it became the perfect opportunity to train for and motivate myself.  No expensive gyms or organized sports teams needed.  Just a pair of running shoes and the right sports bra for this nursing mom (more on that later!)  Sure, I run the easiest legs of the relay, and yes - I'm appreciative that as team captain, Linsey graciously hasn't kicked me off the team yet for my under achieving goals of to simply being able to run (as opposed to walk) my 3 or 4 mile legs.  But running gives me the exercise that empowers me to be a better wife, mom, friend, and all around person.  And along the way, I've picked up some fun friends- as well as brought some old ones along.