Why 12 in 12 in 2012

Before I talk about the why and what of 12 in 12 in 2012 I should tell a little about myself. I am a 50 something, slightly overweight, married woman who works for a community mental health agency and is about to become a first time grandma. I tend to work better when I have well defined goals. I am also, according to my husband, a little bit crazy.

That said I have decided to make 2012 the year I finally become a truly fit person. The year I finally lose that final 7 pounds. The year I lose my little belly. The year I gain a body I feel good about wearing. The year I finally become a lifetime member at Weight Watchers.

Knowing myself -- my strengths and my challenges -- I know I have to have a more specific goal than "get fit in 2012" for this to happen. I also know that, for me, exercise is an important part of me losing weight. The fact is -- I LIKE TO EAT. I am not one of those people who can eat 1000 calories a day and be ok. I also need to have a reason to push myself or I just won't do the amount of exercise that I need to do.

So 12 in 12 in 2012! My goal is to do some sort of fitness event every month in 2012.

I have already signed up to do the Warrior Dash (a 5K through an obstacle course).in July. For my January event my husband and I signed-up for a walking program at Chippewa Nature Center (a local nature center --duh --with miles of trails). The goal of the program is to walk 100 miles on their trails during 2012. I know, kind of cheaty since the whole event does not take place in January, but the sign-up did and this is my goal, so my rules.

Also I had planned on spending some time in December planning this out a little better. That plan went by the wayside on December 13th when my Dad unexpectedly passed away after emergency surgery. Grief has a way of ruining good intentions.

February -- I found a local 5K. Or maybe the snowshoeing event at the Chippewa Nature Center. I have never tried snowshoeing but have heard it burns up tons of calories. The Alpharace is coming to my town in June. Who knows what else will come along.

So onward to 2012 and my big fitness adventure!!