The Root Cause of Aging

The other day while climbing the school steps, Natalie exclaimed, "I wonder what I'll learn today!" 

Imagine what the world would be like if we all woke up with the attitude that each day is a new opportunity for growth and learning. I envy the wonder of my 5 year old, but let's face it, if kindergartners ran the world, my home would be made out of marshmallows and Nutella and all T.V. stations would offer a continuous loop of the best of Sponge Bob Square Pants.

Lately I've been feeling like I'm in a rut...wash, rinse, repeat.  This applies to dirty dishes, laundry, cars and children.  Don't get me wrong -- my life isn't all about cleaning.  In fact, if you should come over, please do not open our home's lone closet door, that is, unless you have a really good health plan.  Cramming 18 ft of shtuff into a 4 ft space is kind of an art, but it's dangerous work.  In addition to feeling blah, I've also noticed that my joints and muscles ache and my get up and go just wants to crawl back under the covers.   I don't want to feel old because I think as soon as you do that, your body complies and you begin looking it, too.  No way, Jose!  I still have hopes of getting carded again...though for that to happen the doorman would need to be blind...in both eyes.  Oh well, there's still a chance it could happen after I turn 65.  Store owners often card my Mom…when she asks for the senior discount.

I’ve come to realize that the culprit for my own lethargy is me.  It's been more than seven years since I've participated in any sort of regular exercise outside of chasing kids or picking up toys, laundry and anything else in my path.  While friends have been flooding my Facebook news feed with their stories of marathon madness, my butt has learned how to transform itself into a perfect replica of my computer seat. 

Today I decided to fight back against the hands of time with a few kick ball changes followed by a several chasses across the floor while listening to a mix of current hits, 80’s pop and everything in between.  The moves weren’t complicated which allowed me to rest my brain and enjoy the music.  Jazzercise may not be cool or trendy, but the price is right, the facility is close to my home and the women are friendly.  In the past, I've tried zumba, hip hop, yoga and even belly dancing, but unlike Jazzercise, I never lasted more than a few classes.  So, I've decided though my moves may be old, I'm convinced my body won't be, if I return to my Jazzy roots...at least three times a week.