Still At It!

So discouraging to be working out (twice yesterday) and eating right every day and watch the scale go UP this morning.  I've lost 5.2 pounds this month, though, 1.2 pounds more than my goal. So I went out despite my discouragement. I am undeterred, despite how hard it is to breathe in this smoke filled air.

I made it through my workout. I almost turned around after three minutes of walking because it was so hard to breathe this morning. (Note to self - get that darn albuterol prescription refilled!) I had to take an extra minute to recover during the last two of the six running intervals because I was finding it so hard to breathe, but I persevered. I left a little later than usual, so had to endure all the coffee walkers (you know the type: women in pants that leave nothing to the imagination, power walking with their best bud and a giant cup of coffee in one hand). There were also dog-walkers, bicyclists, and other runners. I don't mind being out with others when I'm walking, but when I'm running, I mind very much. I remember reading over the years that you should still be able to carry on a conversation when you're working out. I can't even grunt out a hello to all the overly cheerful, talkative people on my route. Sometimes I envision shooting all those people who try to talk to me as I'm trying to survive my morning workout. See, I'm still not good enough for the celestial kingdom...still murdering people in my thoughts. (sigh)

Something funny/sweet happened this morning. An older man out walking his dog and I crossed paths twice this morning. The first time, I just waved at him. The second time, as I was trying desperately to breathe and contemplating dropping dead on the side of the road, dripping with sweat, he yelled out as I passed, "Takes a lot of courage!" I almost turned around and gave him a big sweaty hug. I've never been so tempted to hug a stranger!

Yesterday, I survived a real zumba class without making too much of a fool of myself. Yes, I did frequently stand there and try to figure out what the HECK she was doing with her feet and arms. But I did try to keep moving! And I also squeezed some toning exercises into my half hour lunch break yesterday. So grateful to work at a place that is so supportive of physical health!