Getting strong and fit.

  It is no secret that I am unfit. This is not acceptable.  I used to be an athlete.  I've run two half marathons and countless 5ks and 10ks.  Somewhere along the line in the chaos of the last 2 years, I have given myself permission to become my worst nightmare, unfit and middle aged. Frumpy.  While I cannot control my age, I can control my fitness level. 

  When I was waiting in the Botanical Gardens in Christchurch, after the earthquake, I was facing a night sleeping on the ground with no pillow, blanket or red wine.  It seemed impossible.  Luckily, I was able to get our before nightfall so sleeping on the ground was not necessary but I was surprised by what my reaction was. I was thinking about how my back was going to hurt, how my feet were hurting, stomach (acid), _____fill in the blank.  I am a mess and it is my own fault.

  My husband and I decided to make this life change and knew it would be challenging but I was very naive about it. Not only do you have to be mentally prepared to live in a foreign country, you should also be physically prepared.  Along with new languages, you are exposed to new allergens, bugs, germs and terrain (HILLS EVERYWHERE !)  Luckily, I have a good immune system so have been spared most of the ailments afflicting many of the Americans at post but the hills in Wellington are kicking my butt.  I love walking and hiking but am not fit enough to keep up with even the old and infirm.  This has to change. 

  My husband and I have vowed (again) to get in shape starting yesterday. So, you may want to avoid this blog for a bit, it is going to get boring.  The next 3 months of posts will be for me, as an online account of my progress or lack of.  I am not going to post my weight or how much I intend to lose but will post if I lose or gain any.  And, if I reach my goal weight, I will confess my starting weight.

 Day one: (yesterday)- Quit sneaking cigarettes. We're not fooling anyone anyway.  Limit myself to a glass of wine with dinner only when dining out.  No chocolate or potato chips (I ate Doritos)

Day two:  (today) No Doritos.  Go for long walk. 

See you  tomorrow.