"Just Like Mommy"

On New Year's Eve, I was in the kitchen, cooking, baking, and getting ready for the small party we were having with our friends after the girls went to bed.  Emmy came up to me and asked if I would set up my computer with my workout video, so she could "do her workout" in the playroom.  {She was talking about the Jillian Michaels Shred that she's jumped in and done with me a few times.}

I happily obliged her, giggling as she got out my yoga mat and two wooden blocks to use as weights.  She was very serious about the whole thing.

And for 10 minutes straight, Emmy followed right along with Jillian....jumping jacks, push-ups, crunches, she did it all. 

Even Charlie got in on the action and was trying to follow along!

I have to say, I could not have been more proud of my girls...and a little bit of myself to be honest.  Because my girls see me exercise as a way to get strong, as a way to stay healthy, as a way to blow off some steam.  They don't equate working out with losing weight.  They just see it as something everyone should do most days of the week.

And I love that.  I hope it's something they hold on to for the rest of their lives.  And it's not just something I'm trying to teach my girls....I absolutely believe it myself.  Yes, working out can help you lose weight, but it's so much more than that.

Other than when I was pregnant {and too sick to work out} I have exercised on average 3 days a week for the past 16 years.  It's not something I do to drop a few pounds.  It really is a lifestyle for me.  I'll be honest, I'm very lucky in the gene department and would probably weigh within 10 lbs of what I do now, if I didn't work out.

But I wouldn't be as healthy, both physically and mentally.  I wouldn't have the muscle tone I have.  I think regular workouts are so important for everyone.  And I'm not talking about everyone hitting the gym.  Even a nice easy walk or leisurely bike ride is perfect!

So I was very proud when my little girl wanted to "workout just like Mommy" because she wanted to stay healthy.  I hope she carries this attitude with her for the rest of her life.