Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Making Changes

Summer has arrived.  School ended on June 12 and all 3 kids are home until their varied summer activities begin in July.  Unlike the last few summers where I was desperate for the return of routine, I'm less worried now because I have a "plan".

But I realized something recently.  I'm in trouble.  I'm fat and lazy and really in horrible shape.  And, although this has been true for a VERY long time, now I'm starting to see it affecting my health.  I strongly suspect that the next time I see a doctor, I'm going to get more than the standard "You need to lose weight!" lecture, but a handful of prescriptions as well.

So, my summer plans are evolving.  I need to also do something to help me improve my condition.  I need to exercise daily.  Going out and walking the dog is good, but it's not enough.  I recently purchased "The Biggest Loser" for Wii -- I plan to pull this out daily and do a workout.  I don't expect to like it, but I hope that as I see an improvement in my performance, I'll find the impetus to continue.

Because, you see, what's happening to me cannot be allowed to continue.  I see it spreading to my kids.  I see how they too prefer to sit at the computer or playing with the phone than going outside and enjoying the fresh air and getting exercise.  That shouldn't be the case for ANY child.

Hopefully, I'll find my energy.  Hopefully, I'll be able to teach my 7 year old to ride his bike, running along side him to catch him when he falls.  Hopefully, I'll be able to get my 5 year olds on a scooter and play a game of chase which has always been a favorite.

Because if I don't start taking care of myself, then my children are the ones who are made to suffer.  And now, I think I found the motivation that's been lacking for oh, so long!



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Ilene is a Stay-At-Home Mom living outside of Washington, DC with her husband, 7 year old son, 5 year old twins and a dog.  The family learned the twins were both "on the spectrum" when they were 26 months old.  They have both made such progress since then and parenting them, she feels, has made her a more effective parent in general.

Ilene blogs regularly at My Family's Experience With Autism, sharing whatever feels right at the time.  Feel free to read the stories.

2 comments:

  1. Irene:

    My heart goes out to you. You inspire me. As a mother of a 19 year old son on the spectrum; I can guarantee this: when you take care of yourself; everyone will prosper. Your choices may not be popular at times and it will be easier to give in; DO NOT. You are what I call a VPM (very precious mother) and it is VITAL that you are healthy and energized. Start small and reach out and get support!

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    1. THANK YOU!!!!! I have spent most of my life watching my mother struggle with issues that are at least affected by her weight and I think I've finally realized that I'm headed down the same path. Some of these issues may happen anyway, but if I'm not in at least decent shape, it's going to get bad in a hurry!

      I wish you all the best!

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