Lesson Learned....

I've been exercising fairly regularly at the house, and at least stopped the weight gain for the past few months - but I've realized that if I want to really lose some weight and be in shape I need to step it up a little.  Let's face it, I want to be around for a very long time - I'm not finished "multiplying and replenishing the earth" and I certainly want to be around long enough to see my children, and hopefully their children do the exact same thing...and I can't do either of those things easily if I don't stay in shape!!

This week I have made a commitment to go for a walk everyday with the kids in the Jogger, and so far I've done great!! Almost 2 miles Monday and today (yesterday was our day off!).  Now, this might sound easy, but keep in mind that the Jogger alone weighs at least 20 pounds - then add about 35 pounds of Karyl and about 30 pounds of Freddie - and you get around 85 pounds to push while walking.  We don't exactly live on flat land...there are hills here...lots of them....

In my younger days I would have complained, and maybe even not bothered walking....but in my old age I have come to appreciate these obstacles for what they truly are - built in cardio boosts!!! Sometimes it helps to look at things like the glass really is half full.  I actually like the variety in terrain, and Karyl loves to get out and walk with me at times, usually on hills, which takes 35 pounds out of the stroller (it's not cheating if she asks to get out on her own!!)

So...you're probably asking "where is the 'lesson learned' in all this babble..."

Get ready...

Here it is....

I have learned that there truly is a difference between running/walking/cross training shoes.  I always thought it was just a gimmick to charge more for "specialty" shoes - but then I read an article about shoes and what the specific ones are for and it finally explained why certain parts of my legs always hurt when I get done walking.  I have been wearing "running" shoes when I exercise and I have cross-training/walking shoes for everyday wear.  I wore my regular shoes today, and it was AMAZING what a difference it made!!

Apparently running shoes are designed for maximum comfort on the front of your feet, because, DUH, when you run, you tend to use the front of your feet....whereas when you walk, you lead from the heel.  So, walking shoes are a little harder in the back to help with the heel leading, whereas running shoes are softer in the back....

I will never wear my "running" shoes for walking again!!!

I am going to make some cookies now...slightly counterproductive?? Absolutely....totally worth it??? Yes!!

I am making some Shortbread Peanut Butter Cookies from my new favorite blog...I will post pics and the link later on tonight!!!