Last thursday after lunch, a friend invited me to join her and her friend in an aerobic workout. I thought it would be fun to start a routine with such encouraging friends. Visions of myself being a perfect example of what workout videos are made of flashed through my head.

Yet, somewhere between lunch and her house, I became distracted and worked on writing instead.

"Come join us!" My friend cheerfully chirped as she moved in ways I knew I couldn't at this point in time.

Still I stood up and walked over, cautiously observing what I would be attempting. Knees up to my elbows...got it. As I brought my knee up as far as I could...I noticed my friends had already accomplished five of them. Still I pressed on, giggling in embarrassment. Again I brought my knee up as high as I could...but stumbled as I tried to meet it to my elbow. Quickly I went back to my writing and told them I will "pass" until another day.

But that evening, I was determined to become healthier. My hubby and I picked up a pedometer and some jogging clothes (used for walking at this point in time) along with a ball pump to resize my core ball. Already I have walked several thousands of steps and am making healthier choices in what I am eating. Even the scale is being agreeable at this point.

I am so thankful for my encouraging friends! I may not be where they are right now...but we can grow healthier together.

In the same way, God's calling me to Him...to become healthier. If I listen to Him and do the exercizes...when trials come in life...I will be stronger for them, because He's shown me how to be strong.

It's easy to fall off track whatever the cause.....but just as I take the steps to get off track...I can take the steps to get back on....I guard what is most precious to me......