Body: step aerobics today

Step Aerobics is a great work-out because it fits into a busy day very easily! All you need is some sort of step and some good music. You can step up and down with the basic step and burn a lot of calories. I have made up a 45 min. routine that I do followed by some toning and stretching. I usually do a full hour of aerobic activity because I usually do an extra 15 min. of jogging then the toning and stretching takes an additional 15 min. I always feel like I have used my whole body when I am done with this work-out !!!!! which feels great!! I suggest if you have an old step somewhere in your house that you pull it out and try it again!

mind: God's desire for us to be transformed

I am in awe this morning of the fact that God's grace is renewed every morning. I was re-reading Beth Moore's bible study Breaking Free and I was inspired by the instruction she gave that (paraphrased) as long as the sun comes up in the morning we are given the chance to be delivered! The renewal, and the repeated chances to "get it right" is staggering to me. Just as I am forgiven for my weaknesses and shortcomings I wish to forgive others. I am starting to feel my heart soften toward someone who has done a terrible act of betrayal to me. Jesus is the only one who has such power. I do want to live a more uplifted life. I am tired of being stuck -- I am striving to let go of strongholds myself and want to live the life God has planned for me.

My interpretation of the Beatitudes: do not be proud & self-sufficient (rely on God), mourn for personal and corporate sins while showing humility before God, have a deep longing for personal righteousness and justice for the oppressed, be merciful to others, have a pure mindset, promote peace, show your fitness for the kingdom even while being persecuted & rejoice!!!

Body: Attempting to start jogging routine and group

This photo is where I am jogging these days!

I am attempting to jog at least 2x's a week. My experiences wit jogging 1st thing in the morning has been very positive. I did a series of 5min. jogging, and 5min. walking until I completed 45 min. I felt like it was very doable and even enjoyable due to the fact it was pretty weather both times I have gone and cooler (because it was about 8:30 am). I also love, love, love listening to my I-pod while cruising along. There is nothing really that matches the sense of accomplishment I feel when I am all sweaty and stretching out at the end. I want to build up slowly to running the whole 45 min. because I have pain in my left hip when I run (arthritis prob.). I am also attempting to start a jogging/walking group that meets on Wed. and Sat. mornings -- I hope that there are at least 4-5 people that start this with me. The goal won't be to literally jog together but to meet at the same place and time and start off at the same time. Hopefully giving each other accountability and support! My other work-outs include Spin Class 2x's a week and step aerobics 2 x's a week!!!!