I've been meaning to "blog" about this for a while, but I've taken the first exercising steps toward getting into shape. Now, by no means am I looking to be magazine cover in shape, but I am looking to shed quite a few pounds.

On my call documents, I am exhorted to live as an example of a Christian life to my people. Well, part of that should be keeping in shape, and I've got some weight to lose if I am going to be that example.

I've stated that I've taken the first exercise steps. I had already started to eat better, as long ago as when I was on vicarage. And, if that time as any indication, it was working; I had lost a few pounds over that year, only to gain them back while back at the seminary (should say something for the cafeteria food choices). Well, the renewed opportunity to constantly cook for myself (and my family) has allowed to eat properly again. And while my weight hasn't changed too much, it has fluctuated a bit: up a few, down a few, and up a few again.

So, I've made it a goal that on days when I can, as soon as I get up, I'm on my bike riding around town. My first day on the bike, Tuesday last week, I think I pushed myself too far, as I did the perimeter roads around town. My ultimate goal (currently) is to ride the perimeter of a square mile, which includes part of Marion. For those unable to do the math, that is a 4-mile bike ride. Eventually, I may increase that, but the entire process will be gradual.

Of course, my plans will be hampered when winter comes along. I will ride for as long as I can, but when the snows come, it may be a little more difficult to ride my bike (an interesting idea, however). Well, for those times when I can't ride, my plan is to start walking, jogging, running (whatever my fitness level and weather conditions allow).

The past week, spare the first day, I have only ridden a short distance: south a block, east to the end of town (not that big a distance), back north a block, west to the first turn north, north a block, west to the first turn south, south a block, and back home. I don't know the exact distance because my bicycle computer is dead (I'll be replacing it the next time we're in Sioux Falls). One day, I rode that and then into town to find the glass shop (where our car's windshield will be replaced). Already, I can tell that my body is getting used to that short distance, so I'm looking for a longer alternative route (maybe I'll try doing that same route twice—do that to work my way up to my 4-mile goal).

From time to time, I'll be updating my progress, if for nothing more than to have a record of what I've done.