Superwoman

Yesterday at the gym an older woman (older than me by quite a few years) approached me as I was working out on a machine. She asked about the amount of weight I had on the machine. I wasn't really sure, I just know that I use one big weight and two small ones on each side so I turned around and added them up.

Forty-five on each side. I turned back and stated, "One large and two small so 45 pounds a side." She nodded, said that was great, and please leave them on for her when I was done. I thought 90 pounds seemed like quite a bit for someone who was probably pushing 70, but when I was done I left them as instructed and moved on to another machine.

A few minutes she charged up to me and barked, "Do you know how much weight was on that machine?" I nodded. "Ninety pounds, ninety pounds," she said, shaking her head. Apparently she had misunderstood what I had said earlier and had expected a much lighter weight. She then stated, "I tried to use that machine and could not budge it. You must be a super woman!"

A few minutes later, when I told my husband the story we both laughed at the notion of me as a super woman. Later, however, as I thought about the incident I thought, "Damn straight, I am a super woman!" I get up every morning and work at a job where I am verbally abused on a regular basis (customer service), I work out on a regular basis, I'm a pretty good wife, stepmom, daughter and friend. I eat fairly healthy, do volunteer work, vote on a regular basis. I don't litter, I use my blinker when I drive and I am a pretty good tipper.

I also hang out with other super women. In fact most of the women I know are, in their own way super women. My friend Lynn who has signed up for the Body Challenge at a local gym is kicking butt. My friend Denise who has lost 30 pounds while running a highly successful business. Dana, who has joined me in many fitness adventures, teaches special education and has devoted a huge amount of time to fostering dogs and cats rescued from shelters and puppy mills. Patty, a teacher, grandma and someone who is willing to join me in some of my 12 in 2012 adventures. Connie who is helping to raise her grandchildren. My mom who is learning how to live as a widow. My pregnant daughter-in-law who is growing my granddaughter (a future super woman).

All strong, powerful women. None of whom, if asked, would claim to be a super woman. Who, if called a super woman would probably react as I did -- with laughter. You too are probably a super woman.

So as a part of my 2012 fitness adventure I am going to own my super woman status. I am going to kick some butt. Go for the gusto so to speak.

Up next, Zumba. I've never tried Zumba and have been reluctant to give it a try. I am not very graceful and am rather afraid of looking foolish. But now as a super woman I realize I have nothing to fear. Then in February, snow shoeing. Another first.

I can't wait.