Success! This is the third morning in a row that I have run 2.2 miles. My thighs and lower back are sore, but it's the good kind of sore. The "hurts so good" kind. I found a new route with less dogs and more shade, so I'm pretty stoked about that. The only encounter I've had with a dog was with one on a leash. The owner (a 12 or 13-year-old boy) stopped, pulled in a tight rein, and made the dog sit while I passed by. Color me impressed, Junior!

I'll be honest, this morning I did NOT want to run at all. I was snuggled up on the couch scrolling through Pinterest, and finally sent my sweet babboo a text: "Ugh...I don't wanna!" His reply: "You'll feel better afterward!" After some playful banter, including some whiny quotes from Up, he convinced me to get out. Let me tell you, I do feel better. I'm not content with my body right now, and every step I take on the pavement is a step towards the size I'd like to be. Even though it's only been a week and a half of exercise, I feel encouraged and empowered.

Speaking of encouragement, I find myself praying a lot during my runs! Mostly "God help me get up this hill" but I also thank him for the level of physical fitness I do have. Some people simply can't exert themselves, either because of medical problems or psychological mill stones. I am able and willing right now, and that's something to be thankful for!

Work is going well, and I do believe I'm starting to make friends with my coworkers. I still need practice making drinks, so I pray that I have the opportunity during a slower shift. A few new people were hired and even though I'm still a newbie myself, I can tell the strain it puts on the veteran baristas! I'm sorry I was such a burden in the beginning, but the fact that I am still new also makes me more patient with the trainees.

Our home is slowly coming together. We still need furniture pieces for empty spaces in our house (right now we're using the box our microwave came in as a nightstand) but that will come with time and garage sale scouting. We will be home this weekend, so hopefully we can get some of that done.

Every now and then it hits me how blessed I am to have such a beautiful home and such a beautiful marriage. I love my husband, and I'm thankful God has given me contentment living here!