Muscles, Mistakes and Magic
Last week, I officially began a new strength training journey and let’s just say, it started with a little… detour.
As someone who’s committed to shoring up her mind, body, soul and spirit and staying strong and healthy, especially as we age, I’ve been learning more about the importance of maintaining lean muscle mass. So when my friend Pat casually mentioned her personal trainer who works with women “our age,” my ears perked up.
One consultation later, I was hooked. Not only was Jodie experienced and knowledgeable, but she also had a fantastic sense of humor. And let’s be honest, when you’re doing squats and deadlifts, laughter helps more than you'd think! I felt an instant connection and knew she came into my life for a reason. I’d been feeling a nudge and a knowing that strength training with a professional needed to be part of my life. Maintaining muscle isn’t just about aesthetics or feeling strong in our bodies. It’s about vitality, independence, and longevity.
I was feeling excited and a little nervous for my first session. I punched her address into my GPS and headed out. It was a quick drive and smooth sailing until I reached what I thought was her house. I parked, walked up, and tried the door… but it was locked. Hmm. That’s strange. She told me to “just come in.”
After ringing the doorbell, a kind man opened the door looking a little puzzled. I said, “Hi! I’m here for my appointment!” He looked at me… confused. “My wife isn’t here right now,” he replied. “She’s not expecting anyone and has a meeting at 3:30.” Wait, what? I double-checked my calendar and confirmed I had a 3:00 p.m. appointment. Yep, I was right. Or so I thought. I looked around and noticed Jodie’s two big dogs I met during our consultation, were no where in sight and I thought she must be running an errand and brought the dogs. After all I was a few minutes early.
He invites me in to sit at the kitchen table and he’d call his wife to sort it out. This is where things got interesting. When she picks up the phone he informs her that her appointment is waiting. I could hear her saying she didn’t have an appointment but a meeting at 3:30 and asked my name. He informs her and she states she doesn’t know a Sheryl.
Then came the punchline, “Who is your appointment with?” You can imagine my shock and awe when I tentatively said, “Jodie.” With a big smile on his face he replied, “Jodie lives two doors down.” OMG! I was at the wrong house!
We both cracked up. We introduced ourselves, and thank goodness the door had been locked, or I would’ve just barged into a stranger’s home!
I thanked Tim for being such a good sport and headed out to the correct house. Making my way two houses down, and thinking I wasn’t going to walk in and rang the bell. When Jodie along with her two big dogs opened the door, I could barely get the words out through my laughter. “I’ve been at Tim’s house!” I explained, and we laughed until we almost cried.
Despite the eventful beginning, my session with Jodie was amazing. She did a full assessment to create a personalized plan for me. We’ll be meeting weekly, and I feel deeply aligned with this new chapter of my wellness journey.
Yes, I was embarrassed. Yes, I laughed harder than I have in awhile. But the biggest takeaway? Life doesn’t always go according to plan, but sometimes, that makes it even better.
Whether it’s stepping into strength training or accidentally stepping into a stranger’s house, I’m choosing to roll with it, laugh through it, and learn along the way. I truly believe people come into our lives at just the right time, Jodie and even Tim (bless him!), were part of the story that reminded me to have fun with it all.
Whether it’s muscles, mistakes and magic, don’t wait until the perfect moment. Don’t worry about looking silly or doing it wrong. Just start. Your future self will thank you. And hey, just double-check the address before you walk in. Are you stepping into something new this season? I'd love to hear about it!
XO Sheryl
Click to learn more about Jodie.
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