First’s and maybe’s interrupt my time-to-get-fit routine

I have the perfect motivation to get fit. A new grandchild will join our family in February. When my first grandchild was born, I became serious and drew up a will (never finalized it). When the twins were expected I told myself to get into shape. My back needed to be strengthened for holding the babies. My legs needed to be stronger for getting down on the floor to play with them. Good health increases my chances of living a long time to be around for them. Instead, I crocheted baby sweaters and blankets all winter.

I’m two years older and still out of condition to be a proper grandma. So today’s the day, the beginning of September. Autumn, colorful leaves, and brisk air in my lungs beckon me to exercise outside. In the Fall my schedule becomes steady, vacations are over, and the need for sudden out-of-town trips to watch grandchildren in tournament ball games diminishes. The perfect time to concentrate on ME.

Television commercials and magazine articles stress Spring for the time to get fit, so your body is in bikini condition. Be realistic. This body is beyond the bikini-era of life. I was there, once. I only dream of being as fit as I was at 21. Is it possible? Let’s get serious.

First, I need to find my walking shoes with the special inserts so my calves don’t cramp after the walk. Where did I put those?

Maybe, I should wash my hair and put on a little make up as the neighbors will see me.

First, where is that music player and headphones? Can’t use the cassette player; threw out all the tapes when I started buying CDs. My CD player weighs too much to attach to my hip. I’d walk lopsided.

Maybe, I can search online for an MP3 player like the teenagers carry. It’ll just take a few minutes to order one. Where is my credit card?

First, if I’m going to get serious about exercising, I need to hem my walking pants I bought six years ago. They’ve always been too long.

Maybe, I should plan a healthy supper. After all, eating right is a key ingredient for getting in shape. Which cookbook should I browse?

I’m ready! Shoes found and laced. This hat and sunglasses will cover my dirty hair and lack of makeup. After all, I expect I’ll need a shower after my energetic, heart-pumping walk. Music? I have plenty of songs already playing in my head. When I tire of those, I’ll listen to the sounds of nature. I can hem the exercise pants another day. My jeans will work just fine, for today. Supper? Leftovers with a nice salad and some fresh fruit will be scrumptious.

How many first’s and maybe’s stop you from getting fit?
Tune in tomorrow for the report on my walk. If I really do it, this time.