Happy Monday, folks!  I realize it’s almost been a month since I’ve started my “Get Fit” kick, and I haven’t shared any updates with you all!

Well, I’ve been going steady with meeting my run buddy for 3 weeks now.  So far, I’ve lost 3.2 pounds.  This morning, we jogged for the majority of the first leg of our walk/run.  Each time we go out, we go a little further and move a little faster.  SI, my steady run buddy, has pushed me and inspired me in ways I couldn’t imagine.  We have yet to miss a run because we don’t want to disappoint each other.  The other young lady that also responded to my request came out with us once.  Apparently she’s working with a trainer, but we wish she would come back out with us.  A friend of mine, MA, comes out with us every now and then.  It’s a little difficult for her since she lives in a different quadrant than my running buddy and I, but when she doesn’t run with us, she gets in the miles on her own.

This past Saturday, SI, MA, and I met up with the Black Girls Run group that meets at the National Mall.  We had a blast meeting other ladies, taking a picture in front of the National Christmas Tree and White House, and fellowshipping afterwards at Starbucks.  (Thanks to SI for making sure I got that banana instead of the blueberry muffin.)  I can’t wait to go back out there with them in 2 weeks.  It’s awesome meeting other women AND getting a change of scenery.

To make sure I stay on my half marathon training schedule during the holidays, I’ve recruited some people to keep me company.  Southern Mom and I will be running together on Saturday and next Monday.  She’s afraid she won’t be able to keep up with me, but I’ve told her that she’ll be fine.  I’ve even talked Southern Cousin into running with me next week after Christmas.  She seems to think I’ll be doing a 10-12 minute mile; someone needs to tell her that may not happen…

And although I don’t hit the gym as often as I want (I go once a week-I want to go at least twice), this weekend I started this 30 day challenge that a friend of mine posted on Facebook.  It’s called 10-20-30.  You run or walk 10 miles a week and complete at least 20 push ups and 30 squats a day; you’re welcome to do more.  On Saturday, I even added 20 minutes of pilates into my routine.  (Yes, I only did that because in this month’s issue of “Women’s Health Magazine”, Kerry Washington is on the cover, and she discusses how she enjoys pilates. #dontjudgeme)  That 20 minutes was the best thing I could have done for my muscles after that run on Saturday.

So, in short, this “Get Fit” kick has been awesome so far.  I feel better, have more energy throughout the day, and have even inspired those around me to do better.  But, at the end of the day, this is about me.  I need to be healthy for me and live the best life that God has planned for me.  Whatever your motivation, I implore you all to add some type of workout to your weekly routine.  You’ll thank me later. 😉  Until next time, I’m just a Southern girl…in the city!