The 5K Mom: The No. 1 thing on my Christmas list is time

By Emily Kulkus

Isn’t it amazing how our Christmas lists change over the years? 

I remember yearning for stuff as a kid: toys, crafts, clothes. I couldn’t help it… everywhere I went at Christmastime, people asked my sister and me: “What’s on your list?” or “What did you ask Santa for this year?” (I heard those questions almost as much as “Do you have a boyfriend?”) As an adult and as a parent now, I’m hesitant to ask my kids that question too many times. Of course, they will both be treated to lots of fun things this year, but I’m cognizant of my own role in how long their lists get, especially since they last thing either of them needs is more stuff! 

For the last few years the No. 1 thing on my list has been time. (I’m sure it’s the same for many of you, too!) Time with my family. Time for myself. Time to read. Time to run. Time to cook. Time with friends. Time to think. Time to sleep. Time, time, time; there never seems to be enough of it, but I know that’s my own fault. There are so many things in life that I love to do, I’m always adding more to my to-do list. 

So in the same way I’m always encouraging my toddler to make good decisions (No, pulling the chair out from under your brother is NOT a good decision), I’m going to try and make better decisions in the new year all for the sake of… TIME! And while I was in no position as a 7-year-old to go out and purchase that unicorn on my Christmas list, I’m certainly capable of making my grown-up Christmas list come true.

And high on that list will be time to run. I did pretty well in 2017, considering I had two major surgeries when my son was born early in 2016. But 2018 could be a lot better. One thing I’m going to work on will be getting over the idea that every run has to be a bunch of miles. Gold’s Gym used to have this big wall mural that I loved. It said, “Every visit is a victory.” My 2018 motto will be, “Every mile is a victory.” So if I can only make time for one mile or two, that’s better than nothing.

If you love to run and you’re looking to stay on track in 2018, we have an awesome gift coming for you in store on New Year’s Day. Watch this newsletter and our social media channels next week for more details. And from the Fleet Feet Sports family to yours, Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

Emily Kulkus is marketing coordinator at Fleet Feet Sports, Syracuse. Reach her at ekulkus@fleetfeetsyracuse.com.