When your co-teacher at work uses her “lunch break” to go for a 3.5 mile run in the pouring rain, the inspiration sets in. Or the competition–whatever.

“Thanks a lot, Maria,” I told her. “Now I have to run on my lunch breaks too. That’s just how it works between us.” I make up these rules in my head.

But let’s be honest, I’m not so dedicated that I’ll go on a run in a thunderstorm. Instead, I came home, took a short nap, ate dinner with John before he left for work, then my best childhood friend Liz came over. After finally discovering where the gym is located in my apartment complex, and how the heck to get into said gym, it was 8:15 pm. No big deal. We got this, we said.

We didn’t go crazy on the machines–we took it slow. We used the bikes for about 20 minutes. I tried to stay between 97 rpm – 105 rpm. After that, I lifted weights. I only used the 10 pounders because I never lift weights. But I do lift toddlers all the time, so maybe that’s not much different.

We also tried out a couple other machines for abs and the muscles in the back of your legs. We barely hit those at all. We just tested them out and killed our abs. We have a long way to go!

It was enlightening though. I’d like to go back and see how much I can improve over time. Going to the gym definitely upped Liz and my mood and energy. We ended the night watching Friends, drinking Chai tea, and eating Greek salads.

Now I can’t wait to get some much needed rest tonight. Happy Friday!