Taking Time for Me

For the majority of my adult life, I didn't work out.  At all.  Have you ever heard that saying, "If you see me running, call the police because there is someone chasing me?"  That was me in a nutshell.  


Then, I moved to Meridian, Mississippi, and I had a ton of time on my hands.  No job, no real passions to fill my time.  Davis and I joined a gym to work on our fitness (shout out, Fergie).  I started attending spinning classes and then discovered YOGA.  I say it in all caps because it could be one of my favorite activities ever.  Not long after, I started running and really came to understand what all the fuss was about.  My body has never transformed into Giselle's, and while that would be great, that's not what is important.

Her Downward Dog is undoubtedly
better than mine.

It's about the escape and the knowledge that I am doing something for me, and for me alone.  In all honesty, I think it's one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves.  Exercise will ward off all those pesky ailments later in life like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.  While obviously those things are super important, I relish in what it does for me mentally.  When I spend hours of my week in the yoga studio (shout out Maitri Wellness) or hitting the pavement, I'm a better person to be around.  Just ask Davis.  I'm more confident and my mind is at peace.  I feel good about myself.  


Last April, I ran in a half-marathon with my friend Kim Kennedy.  I loved having goals associated with training, and finishing the race gave me a great sense of accomplishment.

Kim Kennedy, Michelle Pennington, & Me

I won't lie, I fall off the wagon frequently.  I get too busy (or too lazy), and one week turns into a month that I haven't devoted any time to my physical wellbeing.  Then, all of a sudden, I get the urge and am back on the wagon.  But, hey, that's part of being human.

So, now, I'm going to get out with my iPod and my Levi and enjoy this beautiful day - and do something just for me.

Levi's Best Weekend EVER

"All you need is love."  - John Lennon

"I love her, Mom!" - Levi

Davis and I have had a great Labor Day weekend.  Our friends Mary Margaret and Zach stayed the weekend with us, but I must say, no one has had a better weekend than Levi.  Mary Margaret brought Ryder (her female black Lab) to stay, too, and Levi has officially found his first love.


As with most first relationships, the love is not spread evenly.  While Levi looooooooooves Ryder, we think Ryder just liked him okay.  :)  They spent the weekend playing in the mud and sharing Duckey.  Levi was very subservient to Ryder, and she called all the shots, which, of course, I got a big kick out of.


So, here's to first loves!  While I'm not sure the Black Lab Love will last, he's had a fantastic weekend.  It was so much fun for me to see him have such a blast!


Happy Labor Day, y'all!