The Afterglow

I've haven't been running too much lately, due to an injury. However, I had to make a decision to run the Boston Marathon, or not, in December, because the race was about to close. So, being the optimist - I'm in! I've been cross training, but now it's time to ramp up the mileage. I needed to run 9-10 miles Saturday, to be on track with my schedule.

So, I did all the things I tell you do. I put in my schedule. I made a time to run with a friend, so no backing out. I prepared by eating all the right foods and going to bed at a reasonable hour. My friend Jen came over and I realized there was no backing out. It was cold. She pushed me harder than I wanted to run, since she is in better shape and the hills seemed steeper. But before I knew it I was done. 9.8!!!

I didn't have much time to think about it, since I was going to a swim meet, a hockey game and an awards banquet all in the same day. But while I was driving around and waiting for my kids to do their thing, I got a big smile on my face remembering what I had done today. Something that was hard. Something that I knew was good for me and something that got me closer to my goals. It was the Afterglow.

You know that feeling. It's like when you want to put your car in the garage, because it's cold, but it's full of junk. Every time you get in the cold car, it weighs heavy on you mind - "clean the garage". And then you finally do it. Every time you park you car in the garage and see how neat and clean it is, you smile, because it was hard and you are reaping the rewards of your efforts.

That's how my Weight Watchers members feel after they conquer obstacles that have been getting in their way of the weight loss goals.

Two night in a row of not mindlessly snacking. As her head hits the pillow she smiles. Driving aways from the party, knowing he only ate what he planned, he smiles. Getting to the gym Monday, Wednesday AND FRIDAY - it feels good.

When you are faced with that decision, to do what gets you closer or away from your goals, think of how you will feel when you've chosen either.

Choose the one that will make you smile, long after the dishes are done...