Back in Action

Today is a one of the best days of the year for parents everywhere. Besides the first day of school, the day the kidlets go back to school after winter break is the greatest day! There is no more fighting, no more "I'm bored" despite the mountains of new toys, and no more whining! It is a beautiful thing. The best part for me was a trip back to the Y! And after being 'off' for about 10 days, it was great to be back...for the most part.

The benefit of joining the Y in say October or November is you are not a 'newbie' come January. You know how everything works, you have a great routine in place and you know people. Now, I wouldn't say that I 'chat' with a lot of people at the Y, in fact, I really don't know many people there. But, I know their faces and we share kind hellos and knowing looks. Today was one of those days. The place was packed! I even had to switch things up a bit today because all the machines were being used.

But as I finished my first part of my workout this morning (2 miles on the treadmill and 5.5 miles on the bike) I felt revived. I was thankful to be back, listening to my ipod and feeling good. Then I went to swim. Lately, I like to get a mile swim in. I got to the pool and there wasn't a lane open! I have never seen it like this. I shared a lane with another friendly face, a woman I have seen there many times before. It was in this moment that I was thankful that I wasn't a 'newbie.' I am in no way saying that I am a veteran to the Y, but I feel comfortable there. That is where I start my day (at least 3 days a week, if not more) and today it felt amazing! Especially that first plunge into the water. I am consistently surprised at how good it feels to swim.

I never thought I would feel that way. I was never one to go to the Y and a workout seemed like a chore and I had to work up the motivation. I don't feel that way anymore. I have a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment after a good workout, a morning spent with myself and my ipod. So if you haven't started, or you are just beginning and it still feels like a chore, give it time, get in a good routine and take the time for yourself. It is a good feeling.

And even if I don't accomplish anything else all day, which sometimes can happen with 3 kids and homework and activities. I know I have accomplished something for myself. But for the record, today I also did five loads of laundry. So today, I am extremely grateful to be back in the swing of things, back into my routine and back in action.