Beginnings

When I was 19 (30 years ago) I worked as a secretary for the track coach at Western Kentucky University. Knowing that I did zero exercise was almost more than he could take for someone on his "team". So, Coach Hessel made up a training program for me.

On Day One, I was to "jog around the track - 12 minutes."

"Just to get you started," he said.

Twelve minutes?!? Are you kidding?!!! I gave it my best...and 5 minutes later I declared I would never, ever be a runner. I have kept my vow.

Until last week.

I am now on the cusp of my fifth decade. I have been working for the last six months on specific health related issues...but the one that still haunts me is the...ummm..."wide in my glide"...an extra 50 pounds that needs to go.

I have a goal...to be 50 pounds healthier by my 50th birthday. I am changing the way I eat, doing it with medical counsel and professional nutritional support. But the exercise thing is kicking my butt. I have not gotten it down. I keep attempting, but it is not gelling.

So last week, I had a heart-to-heart with my daughter-in-law, Rachel, who declares herself to be a BWR...a Bookworm Who Runs. She has learned to be a runner in the past year. And she is motivating me to do the same. I have athletic abilities and even some coordination. But besides my current lack of physical conditioning, it's the mental struggle that eats my lunch. This blog is, hopefully, a way to attack both head on.

I had one experience last week on the road...in a bad pair of shoes. I am taking care of that tomorrow. Then I will have no excuses.

Dear Readers and Friends, I'm asking you to join me. I will attempt to record this journey between now and February 27, 2010. I will tell all...the triumphs and struggles, and the things I learn along the way. Any words of wisdom you have for me are certainly welcome and greatly appreciated! Thanks for joining me.