Strong Journey

Brisk and Beautiful! I LOVE fall! The color along with the brisk air makes everything seem so alive.  Getting up before dawn and heading out for a run this time of the year, however, can be difficult.  But once out, it is often the most amazing time of my day.   This morning was one of those days.  I was exceptionally tired from what has been a pretty crazy past couple of weeks.  As I made my way out the door it was obvious that the air was lacking any warmth.  A band to cover my ears, gloves, two long sleeves, tights, and my music were what I needed to complete the 8 miles I set out to do.   A slow easy run with the attitude of enjoying the sunrise and all the color around me allowed for what had potential to be a miserably cold time to be turned into a time of praise, thanksgiving, and worship.  A time to reflect, pray, plan, and listen.  An opportunity to see God's beauty at its best.  I have found that the commitment I have made to get up, go out, and train has n

Monday:              40 minutes on a bike, elliptical, or rower - or a combination of 2-3         3 rounds:         10 Push-ups         10 dips         20 Scissor kicks (count is 1,2,3,4 = 1)         30 second plank holds (on elbows)        *7 stretches for runners Tuesday:     Run, legs, stretch         10 minute fast walk to warm up         10k run - 1-2 miles.       Half marathon run - 4 miles          3 rounds:         20 walking lunges - keep your chest up and touch your knee to the floor         20 squats - keep your chest up         10 minute walk to cool down *. 7 stretches for runners Wednesday:     Upper body, core, cardio, stretch. OR  yoga (choose one or the other)         35 minute bike, row, or elliptical - or combination of 2-3.  If none are available then fast walk         4 rounds:         15 bicep curls with dumbbells         15 sit ups         20 second plank hold OR 45-60 minutes of yoga    *. 7 stretches for runners  

Officially ours! Last week the court officially sealed the adoption of our beautiful Grandson, Tiko!  He was made in Malawi, Africa specially for our family, and we couldn't be more thankful.   The judge told my son and daughter-in-law that adoption is for forever, and then asked if they were willing to make that commitment.  There was no hesitation by them as they had made the commitment to be the family to this amazing little man even before they met him.   I'm reminded of the adoption we have also received from our heavenly father into His family for eternity. There is no hesitance in His decision to take us as one of His own.  He recognized us from before we were born as one of His and He too, could not be happier for our willingness to be a part of all He has to give! I pray that as you begin this journey towards a finish line that you will be mindful of who you belong to and the amazing plans He has for you.   The following plan is the first week of 7