This picture means a lot to me. No school today, so I brought my son with me to my regular Friday appointment with my trainer. He wanted to do everything I was doing today (thanks to Kendra Ware’s new ninja warrior class – he wants to get stronger!) It’s really important to me that my kids see me taking care of myself so that they grow up thinking that it’s normal and important to take care of themselves.

For me, exercise doesn’t happen unless I have it scheduled ahead of time. If I don’t, something else always comes up that’s more urgent. I have been working out consistently for 3 years now, for the first time in my life, only because I have scheduled appointments with my awesome personal trainer, Kim Elliott (she is now taking new clients!). I’ve never before been able to stick with something for so long. I discovered from the book Better than Before, by Gretchen Rubin, that I need external accountability in order to meet my goals. You can take the quiz here to see if you’re an Obliger, Upholder, Rebel, or Questioner: https://quiz.gretchenrubin.com/

Mama, taking care of yourself is critical for your whole family. You can’t be the mom you want your kids to have unless you take care of your own needs. Figure out what those needs are. What makes you feel like yourself? I exercise regularly because I want to live as long as possible, ride horses as long as possible, play actively with my grandchildren, and also because exercise is really good for my mental health.

What have you done for yourself lately?

❤️ Dr. Sarah Radabaugh