Please note this was written at 4 a.m. so it might be especially random…
But first… my favorite picture of Brooke.
Sometimes I wonder why this blog has stuck for FIVE YEARS (3,134 posts) and why it gets the traffic it does. I make as many grammatical errors as a 4th grader, my pictures are usually poorly lit and from my iPhone. Most posts include so many random tangents that I get confused reading over them myself, I don’t know a thing about the technical side of it all and I eat the same 4 meals on rotation. I make a lot of mistakes and a lot of times the same ones over and over again and yet you guys still stick around (THANK YOU).
I then wonder why the hardest stuff (along with a lot of great things too and the greatest thing ever= Brooke) for me didn’t come until I had a lot of people watching me on the blog—> femoral stress fractures (those really hurt), overtraining and eating disorder side effects at the very beginning of my blog (osteopenia/ammenorhea and ps I haven’t had any relapses since then). My divorce from a person I was deeply in love with at the time and thought I was going to be with forever, loneliness that my chest still hurts when thinking about how hard those days/nights were (and still sometimes are) and the many ups and downs of post-divorce dating. The pain that comes along with your little baby/toddler/kiddo being away from you for the weekend or holidays. Dropping out of a million races due to injuries/sickness/mental exhaustion, my sister’s divorce and my mom’s health (heart surgery and now a stroke). Feeling so sick recently that I wore sweatpants way too many days in a row and some other things that I have dealt with privately while at the same time trying to keep a smile on my face.
And maybe a part of why I keep blogging (and why you stick around despite my lack of blogging skills) is because of the above reasons. I am an extremely open human (I am that awkward person that shares their life story within 20 minutes of meeting a person) and maybe I just really like connecting with others about all of the ups and downs in life. I have incredible blessings (my family—> I’m looking at you) and my life has NOT been any harder than yours (because EVERY human has trials and most have a lot bigger ones than mine) but maybe I love blogging about the good and the bad so that you and I can relate a bit over a computer screen. Whether it be emails back and forth with girls struggling with the loss of their period from running too much and eating too little. Or for people like a a non-runner that I bumped into the other day that told me she reads my blog just to see, as a newly single mom herself, that life can be beautiful as a single mom and that you can in fact make it through a messy divorce.
We might relate because you and I both know how a break-up wrenches our hearts. Our connection might come through the two of us understanding how hungry marathon training makes us and how ice cream sometimes just solves all of the major problems in the world. We might just ‘get’ each other because we both understand how much we miss running when we don’t get the chance to lace up our sneakers each morning. Maybe we connect because we are both trying our hardest to hit a goal that we have had for many many years. I know for a fact that a lot of us can all agree that the perfect day includes a long run, plenty of refueling and some Netflix watching from the couch. Our ‘reasons for running’ might be pretty darn identical and that helps us both to realize we aren’t crazy. I think you and I know the feeling of failure and the decision we have to make to either give up trying or to be resilient and come back from the set-back stronger than ever.
I hope that when you read this blog you feel a sense of community. I think humans crave some form of community or group and that is most definitely what feeling I get from you guys and why I love blogging. I think that is a part of why we all love running/races so much. It allows us to feel like a part of something bigger, and something that is really great for our health takes it to the next level.
I really want you to know that we are all in this together and when the going gets tough, you’ve got some random girl in Utah cheering for you. Maybe this is one of the reasons that I will blog for as long as I possibly can because I know that your comments/emails and support are always a huge source of strength for me in the good times and the bad. Goodness gracious, those amazingly sweet comments/emails during the first few months after filing for divorce are what got me through some really dark days and your comments over the last few weeks—> wow.
So although this blog might seem like a showcase of froyo and running shoes I hope you know that I really want it to be a place where we can all relate somehow. Whether it be over how amazing endorphins are, the joys of dessert, our addiction to races, the amazing feeling that comes after completing a tough track workout or how hard it is to keep going when you want to quit. We all have ups and when we have downs, we keep looking forward and have hope that there are a lot of really great things in store for all of us in the future. We just gotta keep pumping our arms when our legs get tired, count our blessings and take the hard things a mile at a time.
Here’s to another 5 years (well, I have no idea how long) of getting to know each other better, sharing the beautiful parts of life along with the hard stuff, growing, running and connecting.
———————–
And to celebrate five years of blogging I’m going to buy a pair of Brooks running shoes (whatever ones you want) to one lucky reader!
To enter:
1. Leave a comment with whatever you would like to say.
2. If you want more entries then share the giveaway on twitter or Facebook or email your mom about it or Instagram and leave a separate comment telling me that you did!
Giveaway ends at the end of the week.
Thanks again for hanging out with me on the internet:)
1,501 comments
Lauren
Janae-you are amazing! You’re like the female Seinfeld of blogs!
Cindy
I started reading your blog to get training advice, but now I love hearing stories about Brooke and your crazy salads – keep up the good work!
Meghan
I love reading your blog because of how real you are and your incredible energy and enthusiasm for life. Thanks for writing:)
Kim
GOSH THIS WAS A GORGEOUS POST! you’re seriously soooo relatable and have the biggest heart and that definitely comes across to all your readers. how can we all not fall in love with the randomness of your posting. ;-) reading the recap of the highs/lows of the last few years really struck me- you’ve been through some incredible stuff that really shows what you are made of. wishing you another 5 years of exciting blogging, faster PR’s, and the most beautiful life you could dream up. xo
Dottie (@crazyfitmommy)
I actually just found your blog a few weeks ago, but it’s become one of my favorites! :)
Amy Jensen
Emailed my sister about this for an extra entry :-)
Sarah mac
Janae I have been following for 4yrs and love every post! I was super lucky to meet you at runners world fest as well. Plus your tangent post rock!
Angie N
I know what makes me come back everyday is you are real. People can relate to you; everyone has struggles and it’s nice to see how someone else handles them. And there is NO way anyone can look at Brooke’s pictures and not smile! I pray that you find someone to share your and Brooke’s life with that treats you like a queen. You are a treasure and you should be treated that way. I know God has someone special for you and Brooke! God bless you!
Mary
Woohoo! Your running stories are inspirational – I’m still on 5ks, but I am pumped up by your tales of 13.1 and 26.2!
Brittany B
Happy blog-a-versey! Keep on doing your thing!
Julie
I think that’s why I love blogs. Real life. Real people. I am a runner too but I run about 3 or 4 miles a day with my dog. It keeps me sane and happy!!
Brooke
I love reading your blog. You are such an inspiration to your readers.
Lena
Love the blog and running inspiration. I just got engaged on Friday, my birthday, so here is to hoping I win! :)
Paige
I love to read your blog updates…especially things about local running events/places/misc stuff!
Ashley B.
Thank you for sharing yourself with us all for the past five years!
Ashley t
You truly are such an inspiration! I love reading your blog first thing every morning. Thank you so much for helping me and thousands of other readers out there! I’ve tried to adopt a mantra of ‘no bad days’ because of your positivity in the face of adversity.
Alexis
You do just have the most positive and real outlook on running and life. I think I read your blog for all the reasons you mentioned. This post is a great one, and I really hope you do keep blogging for another 5 years!
And that picture of Brooke is perfect.
Amy
Happy 5 year anniversary! We absolutely adore you! You better never quit blogging. You have a way of making us all feel like we are bffs even though most of have never met you in person. Keep on doing just what you are doing. I followed you in the beginning for the running but you could quit running tomorrow and I would still be captivated by your daily life with Brooke, your family and friends and your froyo with sprinkles :) You are simply the best! Hugs to you and Brooke from Michigan!
Reb
Congrats on 5 years! Your blog is a pleasure to read.
Janelle
Janae~
I just wanted to say THANKS! I always enjoy your blog but never comment. I look forward to another five years of inspiration and smiles!
Ann
A big congrats on the 5-year anniversary. I’m new here, but I really like it so far.
Thanks for offering a giveaway!
Natalie
Janae you gorgeous girl!
So true, I am here to watch you and your little family grow. You are so REAL and relatable. I would love to chat with you more!
You are funny, gorgeous, genuine and an amazing mama and TOUGH!
Such an amazing post xx
Louisa
I started reading your blog because I love to run and love reading stories about other runners, especially other alone who run…but your blog is so much more than that it’s relatable, your stories are entertaining and funny and real. We all love to run but it’s not fun every time we run, and it’s not easy to get that run in for any of us whatever our reasons may be. I think it’s your openness and realness about it all…running, being a Mom, etc that keeps us all coming back. Love your stories and I hope you keep them coming :-)
Emily
This post seriously made me cry. It’s like those YouTube videos of soldiers coming home to surprise their kids or a dog getting adopted or someone hearing for the first time, and you’re like, “Yes! Go, humanity!” And you are so right about community. I agree entirely.
Marie
I always love reading your blogs. They always make me smile along with giving inspiration and motivation!!! Although sometimes after reading I am graving froyo;)
Jesse
I’m fairly new to following you (about a yearish?), and I love your humor, honesty, sincerity, humility and faith! And that Brooke is about the cutest thing ever! Thanks for always keeping it real – and encouraging all moms and runners to just be our best selves every day :)
Theresa
I love your blog simply because you are human – in all it’s beauty and mess! It helps make real connections between you and the reader that I think alot of other blogs lack. Kudos to you, Janae, for putting it all out there and keeping it real!
Charlotte
Reading your blog has made me realize that we are pretty similar in lots of ways and the strength with which you have overcom some pretty horrid experiences is inspiring.
Your love for Brooke is beautiful and when she grows up, it will be wonderful to show her bits of this blog as a record of some of the wonderful memories you shared. Xx
Caroline
so proud of you for everything – with Brooke, running, life – and your grace with words in sharing all the ups and downs…thank you
Justin
Well said, Janae!
Rachel
I’ve been reading your blog for about three years now, and I cannot even tell you how many times you have inspired me in some way to keep going (even through some pretty terrible times). Thank you for being real!
Also, you introduced me to the chicken/sweet potato/avocado combination that I literally eat at least six times a week so thank you for that! No shame about the 4 meals on rotation, that’s how I roll too :)
Sandy M
I hope you are feeling much better and heal really soon so you can get back out there and get that P.R.!
Jennifer
This was a fantastic post. I can’t wait to see you hit that sub-3!
Jennifer Almarine
I was just recently introduced to your blog but I enjoy reading it not only because I like running but also because I enjoy your authenticity and humility. :)
Camile
Very well written! I have to say that I love your blog and it is the only blog (running or other) that I read consistently. Actually, I never miss reading a post. You seem like a genuinely awesome person and I wish you all the best in your running and your life.
Emily
i love your blog! I found it through my sister a few years ago and haven’t missed a post since. You’re an inspiration to me and I love how relatable your posts are, thank you for doing what you do!
Stephanie
Thank you so much for sharing your and Brooke’s lives with us every day. To share the love you give out on your blog, I would allow my boyfriend to pick out shoes for himself, as he is in desperate need of new ones before our race together next month.
I look forward to your posts each day! Thank you again.
Emily
I have been a reader for the past 3 years-I first started reading your blog after my first 10 mile run (I think I was actually searching “what to eat after running 10 miles). To echo what several others have said, I think you are truly inspirational. You inspired me to run my first half marathon in 2012. I have completed several more since then, and completed my first full marathon last year. I swear I couldn’t have done it without your blog. :)
Tara
FIVE YEARS?! Good for you! I love that you’ve shared it all; it’s why you’re still around. Thanks for being honest about it all.
Susie
I love the comment where someone said you are the Seinfeld of blogging! You’re the best, Janae!!
Kristen M
Love reading all you share, one of my favorites to check!
Whitney
I just finished the Runner’s World Half Marathon yesterday (my first!) and I thought of you several times during the weekend festivities. At the starting line, Bart Yasso said “run the mile you’re in,” and you and I both know how true that is for so many aspects in life. I’ve read your blog for years and feel like you’re an old friend that I need to catch up with after a few days of missing posts. You’ve inspire me to be a better runner and a better person. And, I definitely am inspired to eat more Swedish fish. Thank you for all the lovely words.
Andrea
I’ve been reading for years – I think you are a wonderful person and an inspiration, even though I don’t know you! I am grateful for your blog – it is my favorite read!
Jen Madsen
I love how transparent you are and have always been, I think that is why you stand out amongst other bloggers. I still wish the one time I saw you at Walmart in Az I would have introduced myself :)
Megan S
Keep up the good work. Love reading your (honest, real, relatable) posts. And you’re in Utah, which is a place I love spending time in.
Jenna
Love reading your posts :) and your daughter is adorable.
Brittany
Happy 5 years! I love reading your blog! It’s always helpful and encouraging! I just started running about a year ago and your blog has helped me a lot! Hoping to run my first 1/2 in February!
Brynne
Ugh, experiencing a bit of the “junk in junk out” effect right now and am thinking of your blog. I would love to win a pair of Brooks shoes! Keep up the awesome blog :)
Rhiannon
Thank you so much for blogging like you do! I love it! I read a lot of running blogs and you seem the most “real.” Maybe it’s because you aren’t afraid to talk about your struggles and failures, maybe it’s because you have one of the cutest kids I’ve ever seen, maybe it’s because you like desserts as much as I do, or maybe it’s because you inspired me to complete my very first half marathon with a time of 1:58:34…regardless, THANK YOU.
Taylor
I have read your blog for almost all five years! I’m so glad you share so much with all of your readers because your running and life stories are so relatable :) here’s to more years of blogging
Nadia
Thank you for this chance. I love reading your blog because I do connect with you in all those ways! You are awesome!!
Kelsey Butler
Your blog has been such an inspiration to me for years! Its crazy to think of how much I look forward to hearing about your life and running and we don’t even know each other. Keep pushing forward! I am a runner and I have gastroparesis, similar symptoms to yours. It makes things difficult but I have learned that although I may want some foods, I can’t eat them.
Nadia
Shared on FB.
Nadia
Shared on Twitter
hayley
I started reading blogs about 4 years ago, and you are the only blog I still read every.single.day :) I broke my foot 5 weeks ago- you’ve helped me put this time off form running into perspective and appreciate being healthy. Thank you for sharing your life and experiences with us <3
Erin
I have been reading your blog every day for over a year now and I look forward to it every morning!
Katie
You are awesome! I love your blog and have been reading for several years… as a runner, then a non-runner, and now a runner again, you are a role model and inspiration, and I love how open you are about your life and challenges – it makes you more real!
Also you gave me an excellent sushi recommendation when I was in Provo a few years ago, and that, my friend, is worth more than anything :)
laurie
i love your blog, i found it a few years back and went to the beginning and read it all from the start. i love your positive attitude, addiction to sweets and brooks shoes, and love seeing all the pictures of your beautiful daughter!! i will be a faithful follower until the end! :)
Katie
Shared on twitter :) @katiegraceface
Lindsay
I love you and your blog because you are so open and beautiful on the inside and out… and have a forever optomist view on the world and your situations. We ALL have struggles, issues and dark times and the fact that we can support each other is one of the most beautiful things. =)
Kristin
Love your blog! ❤️❤️
Jackie
Your positive attitude is really inspiring! Reading your
Blog always cheers me up, thank you for putting a smile on my face each day :)
Laura
Love this post!
emilygrapes
I have enjoyed reading your blog for the last four years. Through ups and downs, you have always remained so incredibly positive. Something I think of often when I’m going through all my downs. I admire your strength through everything you’ve faced! Happy 5 years!!
Becky
Wow. 5 years. Reading your blog is inspirational. It helps me to know that I’m not alone. You show me there are others out there who share the same hurts and joys in life. Thanks for sharing your life. Life is a beautiful thing. Keep on going girl!
Lauren Mia
Hi Janae! I have been following your blog for over three years now, and respect so much about you! Thank you for sharing your ups, your downs, and in betweens! Here’s to another 5 years!
Erin
I have probably read your blog for the majority of those 5 years! You are easy to relate to and your tangents and thoughts always remind me of my own. I have enjoyed following along :)
Kait
You do not give yourself enough credit! I read because you inspire me to lace up my shoes, remind me that life is about hard work and rewards, and because you’re incredibly positive! Also Brooke’s pretty cute. :)
Lauren
This post made me tear up a little! You have been through a lot in the past five years. Wishing you many more PRs, speedy runs and for life to go your way :)
Katie
I’ve been going through some really rough times and dealing with traumatic events that occurred in my family a few month ago. I’ve been in a rut with my running and reading your blog really reminds me of why I love running. Thanks for inspiring me and so many others!
Samantha
I have read your blog for about 4 of the 5 years and I can’t stop because you just brighten my day! With pictures of Brooke, a honest look on life and a fun perspective of all the things I love, it’s the perfect mix. Love the blog. Keep it up for another 5 years!
Wendy
Goodness…”when the going gets tough, you’ve got a random girl in Utah cheering for you”…made me cry! That is why I read your blog. It’s from your heart. And the same goes here–you’ve got a random girl (ahem, mother of 18 and 14 year old so “girl” is a stretch, but whatever! ;-) in Michigan cheering for you too!!!
Danielle
Happy blogaversery! I really enjoy it. Brooks Running shoes are the best!
Brooke Hansen
I love your blog and I think you are an amazing person!
Rena
Wow what a beautiful post. Love checking in on your blog, youve come very far and are definitely a testament to strength, determination and perseverance. Thanks for the chance and congrats on 5 years!!
Elizabeth d.
Thanks for sharing. I love your blog.
Amy
I love the randomness of your blog and that’s what keeps me coming back day after day! Don’t change!
Cindy
Not just because you are doing a giveaway (that helps) but your daughter is pretty darn cute!!!
Jen Lyle
I absolutely love your blog! You seem so real and down to earth, and it doesn’t ever seem like you are trying to put on a front. I truly look forward to reading your posts, so keep on keeping on!! :)
And, Happy 5 Year Blogiversary!!!
Jen Lyle
And I shared your post on Facebook because you rock :)
Lori
Love the blog.
Meredith
Congratulations Janae! Thank you for being an inspiration to me, for motivation in running & life. You helped me through some tough times too. Thank you for the beautiful light that you shine on the world. And brightening our days with your smile and outlook!
Love, Meredith
Andrea
Great post! We all follow you because you feel like a friend (even though most of us have never met you). A girl can never have to many friends, here’s to the next 5 years :) Oh, and best picture of Brooke ever!
Laura W
You are such an incredibly sweet person and I REALLY admire your candidness. I’m working on being more honest with myself and with others. I wound up with a stress fracture myself because I kept lying to both myself and, worse, my coach about how much stress was going on in my life and I wanted to keep running to deal with it despite the increasing pain in my leg. LESSON LEARNED. It takes a lot of courage to say how you’re feeling even just to yourself – let alone thousands of readers! Thanks for letting us into your life!
Molly
I’ve been reading you for three years and I just love how real you are! You also got me to try Brooks which I LOVE! So thank you for that :)
Jennifer Y
I read because you are normal! Love all the weird details you give us
amy
I dont know how long I have been reading your blog at least 3 years now. It is the only blog I read everyday. Even in your darkest times you are ever the optimist! I hope that life gives you the very best of everything. Thank you for inspiring so many women runners. Xo
Christine
happy 5 years of blogging Janae!
Mary
You inspire me to be a stronger runner! Thanks for sharing your training and life with us!!
Tabitha
Thanks for the motivation and to ANOTHER 5 years!! Congrats!
Jennie
Thanks for keeping it real over the past 5 years. I rarely comment, but i rarely miss a post. Thanks for your shining example of a runner, sister, mother, daughter, friend. Though i can’t keep up your speed, i love keeping up with your life and seeing how you battle through ups and downs. It helps us all! I’m a fan :)
Rebecca Best
You are my absolute favorite blog. Every day I save you for last.
Amanda
I have been reading your blog for quite a few years- and yes there have been ups and downs- but I (and everyone else I know!) have also had ups and downs over the last few years too! Thanks for sharing with us! PS- I wear Brooks Adrenalines
Alexandra
Nothing but love, admiration and respect for you! I truly look forward to reading your posts each day! Keep up the fabulous work – you inspire so many people!
Suzanne
Your best post yet IMHO. We love you and your blog because you are sweet, caring, compassionate, and real. God bless you! Here’s to many more blogging years and much happiness to come.
Suzanne
Oh and that picture of Brooke is the most beautiful picture ever! She is such an adorable little girl.
Emily
Love you and your blog! You make it easy to relate to while reading, and meeting you at the Runners World Half/Festival you are even sweeter in person. Thank you for your posts and pictures, I look forward to reading everyday!
Kimberly
Congrats on 5 years and wish you so many more! I started reading your blog because I heard it was a good “running blog.” I continue to read it daily because I truly enjoy your little nuggets of wisdom and random sweetness of all that you share. (Highs and lows!) You inspire me to be a better runner and a better person. And if our paths never cross outside your blog, please know that you have made a wonderful impact on my life! And honestly, there just aren’t a whole lot of people who get that whole doughnut and swedish fish thing! :) Thank you Janae. Wish you so much happiness and endless blessings! Hugs all the way from Florida!
Tanner
I’ve been reading your blog since SkinnyRunner gave you a shout out all those years ago – and the reason I’ve kept coming back every day is because you are a REAL human being, not just a “blogger”. You’ve always been genuine and honest, and you truly seem like the nicest person. Sometimes it seems like bloggers end up losing a part of themselves through this whole process of putting their life online, or they try to be someone they’re not, but I’ve felt like you’ve maintained your honesty, integrity, and kindness this whole time and I just wanted to say that I appreciate you and your blog!
Nicoll
Your courage to be vulnerable with us has played a major role in expanding my passion and success this year–thank you. God is with you and your precious daughter. I know it isn’t easy, but good for you in seeking His constant goodness through your changing circumstances. Your offer to buy one of us shoes is exciting and nice!
Taylor
Beautiful post Janae! You captured so many of the reasons I read your blog everyday and why I am inspired by your strengths and your ability to keep it real with your struggles. We’re all in this together and with you ;) Keep up the amazing job!
Jen Schreckengost
I started reading your blog when I was pregnant with my now 2 year old. I have been a devoted reader ever since… Feel like I have a friend in Utah to talk running, kids, froyo and anything else on this journey called life! Here’s to many more years!
Jen W.
Your blog always makes me smile… thanks for sharing yourself so openly & honestly.
Amanda n
I used to read this blog everyday even before I was a runner (I think I found it via food ;) and I just thought you were so real… Also you made me want to run, or try it at least. About a year later I decided to try running since my husband is also a runner… I fell in love. I loved the pregnancy posts, it have me a while new perspective and made me less apprehensive about getting pregnant myself. I actually emailed you telling you and was so happy when you replied. Two babies later I still love running! I may not have time to read and comment on all the blogs I used to everyday but I do when I can. I’ll read as long as you post!
Jennifer
I have only been reading for a year or so, but I generally enjoy your blog. I like that you don’t take yourself too seriously! I also like that you don’t promote crazy diet stuff to get faster. You are human, you eat sugar (and know you should cut back, like me), and you like to run. Congratulations on 5 years!
Charlene @ The Sum Of Small Steps
To echo what others have said, I love your blog because you are so relatable! You put a positive spin on everything that happens to you without coming across as artificial. Your blog is definitely a bright spot in my day!
Cara
Thanks for sharing, encouraging, running, eating yummy foods, sharing adorable photos and videos of Brooke, and being an all around wonderful person sharing your life with us for the past 5 years :)
Chris
You said t all perfectly. Those are the reasons I come back. To share my interest in running by reading about your training, maybe sharing a comment or two. And also to check in and see how you are doing. Thanks for sharing your life with us.
Lauren
Love your blog! I love the randomness and openness :) congrats on 5 years! Looking forward to more!
Kelly
Thank you for continuing to blog. I think your realness is what keeps us coming back! Keep on doing what you do, you are a great inspiration to many of us in the running community. :)
Steve Hailstone
Not sure why a guy my age keeps reading about your daily ups and downs, but I like your grit and determination. Besides, it’s a fun read before bed. You tell your/our story so very well.
Aly
Reading your blog posts always puts me in a good mood. Also, Brooke is way too cute!
Rebecca
I’ve read several running blogs and was so happy when I found yours! It’s great motivation for me, and I’m sure you know you have a lot of people cheering for you too!
Blair
Thanks for sharing your stories. I feel like I know you even though we’ve never met! Have a good day! Brooks pure cadence are my jam!
Alexis
Happy 5 years!
Rachael
Thank you so much for sharing your world on the web. I use to consider myself a runner but then life happened and all sorts of excuses got in my way. My goal this year was post babies, grad school, and going back to full time work, to rekindle my love of running for me: not for being skinny, not even really with training goals, but to feel strong in my body again. Your posts have been so helpful in remembering why I love putting my shoes on and slipping out the door whenever I get a chance. Running has become this wonderful thing that is just for me. Sometimes as a mom of two and a teacher, taking time for myself seems like too much of a luxury, but my long run is one of the highlights of my week. Thank you for being such an inspiration!
Lew
Nice post, Janae. I love your blog because it is consistent. I love that you let us keep up with your training and so much more of your life. Plus, it was nice to know someone else who moved back in with the parents for a little while. I think it is wonderful that you have been able to make a career out of this, it seems to be working out nicely for you and Brooke.
heather
I love your blog and would love to win this one.
Annie B
Love your blog! Your positivity is amazing!! :)
KelsieAnn
Hi! I love your blog, it seriously makes me laugh and cry every day i read it! I am currently an injured runner :( Reading your blog has helped me to take a step back and realize that if your body is telling you to stop, you need to stop. I was planning on running the Halloween Half in provo. I just cancelled last night, it sucks feeling like you can’t accomplish something you have set out to do. I can’t imagine how you feel after all your training for your sub 3 marathon time at the st george marathon. I dont know exactly how you feel, but i know a tiny bit of the feeling of defeat. But we will be okay, because running is something we do, it is not who are! :)) Thanks for your sweet spirit, courage to be who you are and hilarious posts!
Kristen
Adorable pictures of Brooke!
Sara
I absolutely love your blog and I love Brooks shoes! Thanks for being such an inspiration.
Maggie Sutor
I love how real you are! You also encourage me to keep trying my hardest when things get tough :) love that picture of Brook!
Maggie Sutor
Brooke* sorry!
Kristin
Thank you for letting us into your life everyday! I believe there is a reason why I stumbled across your blog.
Amanda B @ Cupcakes & Miles
What a beautiful post! I feel so blessed that I found your blog when I needed it most. :)
Amanda B @ Cupcakes & Miles
What a beautiful post! I feel so blessed that I found your blog when I needed it most. :)
Kristi
You inspire me!!! Keep being you! Love your blog!
peko_tin
Congratulations on five years of blogging. I just found your blog a few weeks ago and I’ve been reading every posts since then. I am so grateful for the internet because I am a lazy runner who lives in Japan.
Thank you so much for the motivation and sharing your life with us.
P.S. Brooke is so adorable:-)
Jenn
HI!! I just started reading about 6 months ago, leading up to my first marathon, and now I love checking in as often as possible! You motivate me and get me excited to train and run :) I’ve been planning my next shoes and was thinking Brooks :)
Meghan M
Cheers for five years, Janae!! You brighten my days:)!
Allison
God speed!
Tiana Rehe
I enjoyed reading this blog post, Janea. I hope you have some happier times to share with us all in the near future.
Cheryl
What a down to earth and sweet post. It’s what keeps us all coming back!
Lindsay
Thanks so much for sharing- I love reading and am always inspired!
adrianna
it is an absolute joy reading this blog! and thank you for allowing us into your life. you are such a dedicated, sweet, genuine, motivated, awesome, inspirational young lady/mama/runner! i truly enjoy this so much, and really do feel like we’re friends :) bless you and your family. you do you, and keep at it!
Haylie
I like reading your site because it helps me cope through rough injuries I have had for the past two years!
Kim
Hi:)
I’ve been reading/stalking you quietly for 3 years and binge read your old posts over a weekend so I could catch up. Yep I sound like a stalker!
I just wanted to say thanks for sharing, I love reading your posts in the morning and I particularly love the manta “I can do hard things”. I’m currently doing the C25K program (too many stupid injuries post pregnancy from going too hard too fast) with the kiddo in the pram and I use that when I go up hills.
I do appreciate that you don’t use different colours anymore too ?
Kim:)
Sabrina
Always look forward to Hungry Runner Girl in my inbox! I want to win! I’d make you proud! Ha! Brooks Ghost all the way baby!
Angie @ Run Which Way
Thank you for wearing your heart on your sleeve all these years. You have inspired my running and to start a blog of my own. You’ve been through a lot and yet you are relatable always. Here’s to many more.
Katie Glass
I love reading about your adventures!
Adrienne
Found your blog when looking for inspiration on running while pregnant and have been reading it for over a year now. About to have my first baby-didn’t end up being able to run throughout the pregnancy but keeping up with you has kept me inspired and ready to get back on the road once the little one arrives! Thanks for being you and Making me smile a lot!
Kami
Congrats on 5 years!
Jessica
I love reading you blog because the fact that you’re crazy fast inspires me to try to be the same!
Amy
I’ve been reading since nearly the beginning and you always brighten my day! I look to your blog for running advice/motivation and I love reading all of your randomness! I think you’ve been such a success because you are so relatable. We all feel like your friends. Keep on writing, Janae! ?
Diana L.
Your blogs have made me laugh, cry and want to be a better runner. Thank you for sharing your life with us. Here’s to many more celebrations like these!
Marla
I really enjoy reading your blog. You’re so motivational and positive and I really appreciate that. I also love the yummy recipes you share – the smores bars were a hit at work!
Hilary E
Thanks for the post! I love running for the community! I have met so many wonderful people. Including my running partner and best friend, who I met running a marathon. We met a mile 5 and ran the whole thing, qualified for Boston. We were both 5 hours from home for the marathon and discovered we lived 10 minutes from each other! Now are boys are running cross country (they are 13) and they are becoming friends as well. I love your blog for so many reasons, for the ups and downs, the victories and I love your positive take on things. There is always a reason for everything in this life, it just takes time to see it. Thanks Janae!
melissa D.
Love the blog, you’re a huge inspiration to me and so many others. What a greal role model you are!
Nikki
Happy 5 year anniversary! I love reading your blog. I love your positive outlook on everything, even the tough times. And I think you are a very talented runner and always look forward to seeing what you will do next!
Blair
This may sound kind of crazy but I’m in my first year of a PhD program and I have no time to do anything else and most days don’t even check my email. But lately, especially since your tummy issues started up, I check your blog before bed just to see how things are going. I’m so rooting for you for this sub 3 because that’s my dream too and it got derailed right before Boston 2014 (ran 3:01!!! Argh!!!!) and I’ve had setback and disappointment after setback and gutwrenching disappointment since. You bring such positivity and lightness to everything and it’s honestly a source of inspiration to me during one of the hardest times in my life. So thank you!!
Robin
I just started reading your blog about a year ago or so. I’m not a great runner like you – today I ran 4 miles on the treadmill and it was not easy for me. But – I enjoy reading about your life and can see your strong sense of perseverance. Somehow – despite not knowing you – find this blog to be an incredible motivational fuel for fitness. I’m trying. So please, keep at it. Your blog strikes an incredible balance & tone that is quite refreshing.