4 weeks down

I have just completed four weeks of my morning workouts. For a whole month I have gotten up at 4:44 a.m. I love it. I love how I feel when I get home at 6:00....I really didn't think I could do it, but now I really can't imagine not doing it. I love seeing my friends in the morning (even if there isn't a lot of conversation at first, there is always lots of laughs by the end!) and I love having time for myself.

I have had to adjust some schedule things at home...like going to bed a lot earlier, but it really hasn't been a big deal at all. Instead of having my "me" time from 10-11 p.m., I have it from 5 a.m. - 6 a.m. I have always been a night person, but I have been forcing myself to be in bed by 10:00. The last few days that we have had late starts or no school, I have gotten a lot accomplished in a very quiet house. I can't go back to bed because I am all sweaty and wide awake so my only choice is to come home, shower and get something accomplished around the house.....or drink coffee and watch the TODAY show (which I never get to do!)

Taking Charge....And Making a Change

So, my posts usually focus on the kids...but this one is about me. I have struggled with my weight/body for a while now. I know I have carried and birthed four children. I wouldn't trade one stretch mark or flab of skin for any one of my children. But, I have not felt "good" about myself for quite some time. I have tried working out and running on my own. I do great for a few weeks and then I stop. It has been hard to find time. Raising four kids is a lot of work. I know that is just another excuse...but it's hard! I tried running after school and leaving them at daycare for an extra 45 minutes. It worked for a while, but then once wrestling started and they boys had to be at practice at 6, it just got too hectic. It was too rushed to work out until 5 and then get supper made/served and everyone packed up at back up to the school by 6. It just didn't work.

I know I needed to make a change and make a commitment. One that would stick.

I have a group of friends that started working out religiously last January. My one friend has been the "trainer". She is a very fitness-smart person. She researches muscles and the body, how it works and what gets the best results. I have watched two of my friends lose inches, weight and gain confidence in themselves. I have felt a bit jealous of how good and in shape they look.

They have asked me numerous times to join them. I'm too self-conscious. I used to be in such good shape...I am sad at how out of shape I am right now. I never wanted to let myself get like this! I am a year behind them now. But, the one thing holding me back....they workout at 5 AM.

Today I made the commitment. I set my alarm for 4:42 a.m. I joined them at 5. I worked out. I feel great. I was home by 6.  I don't want to quit. I don't want to let myself down again. I want to do what they did for this last year. If they can do it, I can do it. We'll see how it goes. I feel good. I feel sore. My coffee cup feels heavy. My arms hurt. It's a good hurt. One I haven't felt in a long time.