Surprise! Encouragement...Get It Any Way You Can!

The last week was remarkable.  Not only did I stay with the Zumba classes I started, but I looked forward to them!  My coach was away, on a very fun and much deserved vacation, so I was left to my own devices.  By week's end, my passion for this new way of living began to ebb.  You see, my weight has been stuck!  When I looked back at my habits, I found that while my exercise routine has been consistent, my nutritional habits slacked.  I haven't gained, but I sure didn't lose anything.  So this weekend, I didn't weigh for a day and I didn't write down my meals.  My hope was that I could be re-energized and start anew.

How did that work for me, you say?  See what YOU think:

1.  I found that I miss my self accountability.  Can you believe that?!  I missed being accountable.  Now that's a change I never thought would happen! 
2.  Sunday morning (yesterday) I walked for 56 minutes and 12 seconds without pause (well once for a drink of water)!  Oh, the last .2 miles nearly ate my lunch, so to speak, but I met my goal.  I even walked 2 more miles in the evening!
3,  My early morning walk showed me God's beauty in so many ways; the sounds of birds and morning hellos, the smells of flowers and neighborhood air, the green of the trees!  When I got home, I told my brother about my walk.  He was so great!  He praised my efforts and gave me a few pointers about staying consistent.  Sweet motivation.
4.  My dear friend Faith, also my birthday buddy, sent the nicest post!  Her encouragement was priceless!  She is training to run a marathon...now how motivating is that?!
5.  I have a new friend...SWEAT!

So, I may not have lost any weight, but I gained the motivation I need to continue my journey.  The crash wasn't serious; it was a bump.  This week will be as remarkable, but in a different way.  By the way, don't forget the power of hope.  It is priceless!

...and away we go!