Drum Roll, Please

I JOINED A GYM!!!!!!!

AND I WORKED OUT FOR THE FIRST TIME IN YEARS!!!!!

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!

Can you tell I'm excited? I am giving Jenny Craig a break for about a month or so, just as a I transition to the new job (luckily, my weight is staying virtually the same, so not worried). But, I have really been craving a good cardio workout - isn't that crazy? I guess that it means that my body is ready for it. Have I really healed enough? I sure think so!!

So, I joined Bally's online last week, and I went to my local location (near the new synagogue so that it is easy to go from work) yesterday evening. I signed up for my free personal training session, got my official ID card, and I bought a lock. I haven't been to a gym since a little while after my car accident. For awhile there, I tried to keep going (there was this Latin Dance Class that I LOVED), but it got too painful. Eventually, I let my membership lapse. I just couldn't do it.

But, now, I am trying again. I took it really easy yesterday - 15 minutes on the elliptical machine, and 15 minutes on a recumbent bike. Felt so good to be moving my body, listening to my iPod, and taking good care of myself. I kept close eye on my back, and made sure to listen to its signals. If I started feeling any pain, I slowed down or reduced the resistance. I don't feel any pain or soreness today, so I must've done a good job!!

The location also has a pool - my FAVORITE!!! I can't wait to go swim some laps, then relax in the whirlpool. Another great new step in my recovery!!! HOORAY!!!!

A New Synagogue Home!

So excited to be the new rabbi at a wonderful congregation on Long Island (YES, I finally have my own parking space!!! The ultimate luxury!!).

The congregants have been so warm, so welcoming, and have really opened their hearts and souls to me so far. I began last Wednesday, July 1, and I've been slowly becoming more and more acclimated. Friday night was my very first Shabbat worship service with the community, and I am STILL enjoying it. I felt like I ran a marathon, but it was such an amazing feeling - so much love, spirit, and joy. Though the new cantor doesn't officially begin until August, he was our "special guest," and it was just amazing to see how fun it will be leading services with him all the time.

I can't even begin to convey how thrilled I am to be a part of this new congregation. It is a very exciting time for all of us in the community, as we glimpse the exciting possibilities in our collective future.

Hope all is well with you!!