Let's Get Physical, Physical...

The Lakers were beating the Celtics on one screen and the "Creepiest Towns in America" were being showcased on another. The whir of the ceiling fans harmonized with the grinding sound of the spinning rubber mat beneath my feet. Thunk, thunk, thunk...one foot after another...starting off slowly then reaching a cruising altitude of 3.5 miles per hour.

Such was my work-out last night.

I have never been a "gym-goer, workout kinda person." I'd a sooner had you string me up by my big toe than drag me to a place where: a) everyone is fitter than me and b) I'm gonna have to work hard at something I don't even enjoy. Blech. Who needs that?

But, come a lilttle closer. I want to whisper this in your ear so no one else will hear me say it. Come on, that's it...a little closer. Here goes (cupping hand over your ear) ...

"It's not so bad."

There. I said it. And, to make matters worse, I may (brace yourself) actually enjoy going to the gym. Yes siree, I cannot believe those words just came out of my mouth. It has actually come to be sort of a getaway for me. When I get there, I can usually look forward to some quality buddy time and a welcome smile from the trainer I've been working with. And, you know what? I am not the least fit person there. Now I'm not that inhuman woman that stays on the Satan-spawned elliptical machine for an HOUR, but I can hold my own. I can also look forward to the feeling of accomplishment that comes from getting in another day of cardio and weights.

Is this me really talking? Cardio? WEIGHTS? [laugh]

Last night, I went kind of late and it was particularly hard to get through the cardio on both the treadmill and the bike. At one point, I didn't think I could go on. So, I leaned back, closed my eyes and visualized myself stepping on the scale at Tuesday's meeting. In this vision, I could hear my leader saying "good job...2 pounds!" I may not end up losing that much but what it did was get me through so I could finish.

Hopefully, one day I'll look back and read this and wonder why it was so hard in the beginning. It's hard because it's a total lifestyle change for me. I am not accustomed to taking care of the wonderful gift that God gave me...my body. For too long I've been taking it for granted. In fact, next time I get to the hard part of a workout, I may close my eyes and just pray and thank Him for all my blessings.

I'm not perfect, I'm a work-in-progress... but I am blessed indeedy.