Monday, January 12, 2015

Team Kelley Shares Success


Mutual affection for outdoor activities and an appetite for a fast-paced, full lifestyle were among the commonalities that initially brought Ed and me together.  We met working in Summer Camp where each of these is found in abundance.  Those who have attended or worked a Culver summer know it is like the 200 Freestyle of Culver programs – one long, exhilarating sprint.  The enthusiasm of the campers, commitment of the staff, and beauty of the campus are energizing. The early mornings, late nights and non-stop schedule in between are exhausting.  Yet, like all Culver programs, being around people who understand the unique experience that is Culver is invigorating and nourishing. 

Like many couples, after we welcomed our three children we found the full lifestyle continued, yet the pace was quite different.  Our schedules were packed, but our activities were more sedentary.  It became difficult to find time to work out.  Squeezing in even 30 minutes of exercise a few times a week required planning.   As our children grew older and started school, it was important to Ed and me to introduce them to a variety of athletics to help them foster the habit of building exercise into their lives.  We also realized it was important to set a positive example ourselves. 

We were inspired by seeing friends and colleagues involved in Wellness Activities on campus and off to explore greater challenges and set a goal to improve our fitness and overall health.  Andy Dorrel introduced us to the Advocare 24-Day Challenge which was a turning point for both of us.  Having one another to lean on created a partnership and accountability which made sticking to the plan easier.  We reminded one another of our commitment when necessary, and shared in the joys of lost pounds and the discovery that such healthy eating habits were much easier than we thought.  We were motivated to make long-term changes to our eating habits. Focusing on our health prompted us to increase our exercise. 

After completing the 24 Day Challenge, we felt stronger, lighter and more energized.  The positive impact motivated us to continue with the new habits created during the challenge.  Each small change we made laid the groundwork for success at a new goal and another challenge.  These stepping stones and the encouragement of our friends gave us confidence to try more.  Flannery Posner and I ran the Monumental Half Marathon in November of 2012.  With Dana Neer’s help, we followed a clear training plan and were prepared enough to surprise ourselves with our time - and really enjoy the experience! Although Flannery and I saw no familiar faces at the race, being surrounded by thousands of other people who were committed to the same goal was incredible.  I was hooked!  Ed and I ran a half marathon and then tackled the Lake Max Triathlon.  This year, our children joined us for the Kids’ Tri.  They were apprehensive at first, but training and preparing as a family provided us a shared experience which was both fun and rewarding.  Seeing their pride after completing the course was one of the highlights of our summer.


Participating in wellness activities easier as a team whether it is your spouse, family, roommate or colleague.  So many of our plans are made, ideas formulated and dreams developed during our runs.  This year’s Acceleration program has provided a platform for maintaining our efforts – nudging us to find time even when days are already full.  It takes planning and coordination, but with a partner to remind us and hold us accountable, it is easier and more fun to make exercise a priority and continue to enjoy the benefits of good health.  As they say, success is nothing without someone you love to share it.

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