Sharing My Health Journey {week eleven 3.25.15}

Today for my week eleven post, I want to share with you just four simple things that keep me motivated to move during the week. Week eleven was the fresh start I needed. I had a couple days where I felt like I was slowly sinking and loosing motivation, but then things really turned around. I've noticed a few things that help me to keep going when it's the last thing I want to do. So, in no particular order, here they are:

1. Thinking about Running around with our Kids

I love how the Bible describes Abraham's life as long and satisfying - that's exactly how I want mine to be. When I think about living a long life with all my loved ones, it helps me to see the bigger picture behind these daily decisions. I can't wait to run around the yard with my sons and daughters and be actively involved with them in the things they'll love to do.

2. The Pioneer Woman's FitBit Updates & Other Blog Posts

The Pioneer Woman's blog posts about her FitBit were a big motivator for me in getting a FitBit. If you've never read Ree's blog, you should go check it out - thepioneerwoman.com. She is so funny and she seems like she has the kindest heart. I love reading her stories about life on a cattle ranch with her family. Ree wears a FitBit and often shares about the walks she takes to reach her 10,000 steps. What I love about reading her posts is that they're so down to earth. She loves her family so much, and even in the middle of all the cool stuff she does, she's caring for her health one walk at a time.

This post called 'Motivation' is soo soo good.

I also really like this post by Emma of A Beautiful Mess about her fitness story. Her writing is always so nice to read.

3. Putting an Encouraging Picture in my Head

So here's the thing. I don't know how to write this one. I feel awkward every time I try to explain it to myself. But I've gotta share it because it has helped me push through exercise when I really wanted to give up. Sometimes I'll imagine myself in warm weather, playing with Bekah, wearing jean shorts and a t-shirt. It sounds so silly, but the way I feel in that image is comfortable and care-free. I feel my best when I'm exercising and taking care of my self, so that picture, as simple as it is, can be just the boost I need to keep going.

4. Giving & Receiving Encouraging Words

This applies to every part of life, ya know? I'm so thankful for all my family and friends who let me know they believe in me and in this health journey. I had a bunch of these experiences last week and it made me want to be generous with my kind words, too. The nurse at Bekah's pediatrician has been like an angel to us from the very first appointment. She is so fun to be around and is always really kind to me. During difficult appointments I find myself joking around with her a lot and it eases so much of my nervousness. Then I feel like I can be a much better comforter to Bekah. For a long time, I had been meaning to tell Alicia how thankful I am that she's in those appointments with us. I finally got around to it this week. She's been a real blessing to our family. Hopefully those words encouraged her to keep going with her work as a nurse - I'd be so sad to loose her!

Last week when I needed a fresh start, being aware of the things that motivate me was a big help. I'd encourage you to think about what those motivators are for you, in whatever tough stuff you're working through. And hey, if you think about it and want to share your motivators with me - I'd love to hear all about them!

Love,
Bonnie