week 1

Well, I have completed my first week of the UBBT without too much trouble. It does seem like a lot to accomplish in 13 months, with all my other requirements along side these ones, but I know how determined I can be, and I know I can do hard things. I have proven it to myself before. My boyfriend is a bit concerned it may be too much for me, but he is supportive 100% none the less. So are my kids. It helps me immensely to have them by my side. My boyfriend works out 5 days a week as well, and so on days that I don't feel like working out, he is there to make sure I join him at the gym. I have, though, devoted my Sundays to a rest day, so make up for it on the Sat or the Monday.
There are about 3 things I hope to accomplish by doing this UBBT, but they are personal to only me. I am not out there to prove anything to anyone except myself.
I also have the support of everyone on my team at work. At an early morning meeting, they all clapped and cheered for me. They are most excited for me and eager to help me accomplish my acts of kindness. I have many recorded already. I hope to exceed my requirements in this area. The world needs more kindness and tolerance.
I continue to work up my strength with the pushups. Having a bad shoulder for a year, has made me be a bit more careful about pushing myself too hard with the pushups. I do as many as I can in normal pushup position, and then the rest against the wall, or on my knees. I gradually increase the amount I do on the floor, and am noticing improvement in the strength of my shoulder.
Biking seems to be my most pleasurable part of this quest. I love to bike, indoors or out. On Wed I pushed myself to do 45 minutes on the stationary bike going no less than 100RPM, but trying to keep it about 105 to 110. I have biked almost 100 km this week alone, plus ran about 10.
Having to complete these requirements without being able to quit, makes me much more aware of my health. I can't afford to get sick, or run down for any length of time. I am careful to wash my hands often, especially at work and before I eat. I also stay clear of people coughing or with any signs of a cold, or other illnesses. I have signed myself up for a flu shot at work in Nov. I can be very determined, and I AM very determined to succeed at this task of the UBBT, and in completing my 3rd degree requirements. I will not fail.
The will to win means nothing more than the will to prepare. I feel prepared for this adventure. I have been working out regular since April, losing 28 lbs, and I love to write. I have been journaling for the last 30 years, but journaling on line is very difficult for me. This will be my challenge. I don't feel I can truly write about my inner most feeling, strengths, weaknesses, and obstacles as they get in my way, due to the fact that others will be reading about them. My journals have always been very private and heartfelt. This is different.
Over the last 9 years, I have gone through incredible personal growth. I have gone from being a stay at home mom with a husband who made $ 80,000/year, to a single parent of 4 with an income that doesn't quite stretch far enough. I have gone from a brand new white belt, who knew nothing about martial arts, to a 2nd degree black belt that has made martial arts a way of life. I have gone from where I was to where I am. Now, I will continue to go where I will go.