Beautiful Northern Michigan

For years, I hated camping. Didn't want to do it.

Three years ago hubby and I went camping together for the first time. It wasn't terrible. Since we'd spent a small fortune on camping gear, we've continued to go at least twice a year

We made our annual trip to Interlochen State Park back in June and just returned from Aloha State Park in Cheboygan. We had a premium beachfront site with beautiful sunsets.

Whenever we are in northern Michigan, we seek out smoked fish and pasties! There's a great fish place across from the entrance of Burt Lake State Park in Indian River.

This photo cracks me up! These are my nieces and the little one rarely smiles nice for the camera!

Motivation is a fire from within; only you can light it.

Around the time I married my hubby, I stopped jogging. We moved into a hilly neighborhood and it was difficult. My drive to work increased, we had two puppies, and a lot to do with a new house. Over the years, I've tried to stay active by walking and golfing. But the pounds are adding up and I weigh the most I've ever weighed in my life. Lately, I've been thinking about jogging again, but with the extra weight I've put on and at my age, I can't just start running and expect it to feel good! After jogging a bit on the hiking trail at Interlochen on Sunday, I decided to start the "Couch to 5K" app that I've had on my phone for a while.

Week 1, Day 1

It was... easy at first, then quickly became a challenge! It seemed that when it was time to run, it was uphill. Remember, I said that my neighborhood is hilly?!

I'm going to repeat Day 1 again on Tuesday rather than advancing right away. Remember my weight and age comment?

Tomorrow, my legs will be sore and stiff, but it will feel so good! I also did something that I didn't think I'd do. Took a "Before" photo in my skivvies. This is one photo that I do not plan on sharing!

This app also has motivational quotes on the finish page. That's where the title of this post comes from.

Have a great week and I'll keep you updated on my progress!

My buddy Chuck

This is my buddy Chuck. Today was a big day for him! He went to the vet to get his rabies shot and his nails trimmed. He DOES NOT like to have his nails cut!

He was a good boy while in the waiting room. There was some excitement when other dogs came and went. But once in the back area, he became a different dog. Scared and looking for a way out. If he could have, he would've jumped out the window in the procedure room. One assistant held him while the other cut his nails. His eyes were so red I was worried he'd have a heart attack or stroke!

But once it was over and he was out of the room and back in the lobby, he was better. He was fine on the car ride and was happy to be home. He even went for another short car ride with me later in the day.

Now that the weather is nicer, we take him almost everywhere with us. Walks and rides are his favorite things! And treats.

As I type this, he is laying on the floor next to me. He's my buddy.

To keep up with Chuck and his adventures, follow him on his Facebook Page!