Side tracked! First, I must apologize for failing to WRITE last week! It isn't that I wasn't writing, haha. In fact, I spent most of the week re-writing our VBS handbook and schedule for VBS 2012. This year's handbook is actually called our "Flight Manual", and I was able to condense a lot of the content. I must say I am very pleased with the outcome--but I missed blogging! So here is last week's experience, somewhat condensed (smile):
Monday February 20th:  Aerobics video scheduled for 6 pm, so I came early to work on my walk/run program. Ran another mile, and added a couple of extra laps for good measure. Next we began our kids aerobic video. Piece of cake, right? WRONG! By the end of the video I was exhausted.These kids videos are great workouts for kids and adults alike. Those people aren't foolin' around!!! I'm sure I looked like some of the participants on Biggest Loser by the end of the night. Perhaps I bit off a bit too much.
Tuesday morning February 21st: I was able to get out of bed. It didn't kill me after all! LOL, I was so tired the night before, I barely showered and literally fell into bed. The only downside effects from my extra-exhertion were leg & feet cramps. Have you ever had your toes going right, your shins sinking in--while your calf muscles were screaming "help"???? Please don't suggest putting a bar of soap in my bed. It may work for some, it does NOT work for me. I do take an increased dosage of magnesium--and have added zinc and potassium to my daily regimen, and I keep drinking water. Keeping my body hydrated is also key. OUCH!
Wednesday February 22nd: WOW--what a turnout we had for aerobics. Once again, I ran my mile before our aerobics session--and added another quarter mile in between walking a few more laps, for a total of two miles. Once again, I had a tough tim finding the energy to finish the video with our group...but I didn't quit! The video we used was called "Fitstix for Kids"...and once again, it just about kicked my booty. Onward and upward though. Lost 4 pounds last week, so it definately paid off!
Thursday February 23rd: So much going on at the office that our staff was not able to exercise together :-(. It was a beautiful warm day, so I made it home, grabbed hubby & grandson, and off to Riverfront park we went. I did pretty good on my own, jogged as much as I could. Music definatley helps me stay focused and helps me not pay so much attention to my loud breathing...which must be pretty loud from some of the other joggers I passed, and who passed me. They looked at me like "poor girl--she's dying" kind of look. LOL, but I sure feel better!
Friday-Sunday: Friday is the day I visit my mom, and take her to run errands, as I run a few of my own. Grocery shopping with a 76 year old and a 6 month old takes a lot of my energy. I'm learning to do some bends and stretches along the way, and look for ways to get a little exercise as we go. Walking up and down stairs to take in mom's groceries, and taking Jude (6 month old) a little faster around the aisles while we look around has become a fun way to stay active. Twice on Friday, I had unexpected situations arise. The kind that can quite frankly catch you waaayyy off-guard and challenge your Christianity. Ever have things like that happen to you? Yeah, I guess we all do. I felt like I handled each circumstance the best way I could have. Becoming a healthier person can't be just about your physical self. One's spirtual self is challenged as well, and if both don't grow together, then you become OUT OF BALANCE. I want to be whole, so I can be of help to those I love and be an example to others. I also know that if I'm to stay BALANCED Spritually, then I must exercise my faith as well. Oh--and side track note--I bought a new pair of running shoes on our "Friday Fun " day--shopping seems to help balance me as well (hum). Back to the present--this week's verse is:
"Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the LORD forgave you." (Colossians 3:13)
If we want to be strong spiritually, then forgiveness needs to be part of our daily routine. I'm not saying it's easy. Just like running a mile isn't easy. It's just necessary.  God made a way for us to become healthy and whole. He gave His Son Jesus, and Jesus became our example. So I'm working on the inside AND the outside as I go...in His steps, and in MY shoes a pair of new Nikes. I'll let you know how they hold this fat mama up--back on the track this evening at 6 pm with my friends. Can't wait!