"Go for it!" by Juli Zacharias
Happy New Years to everyone!
The holiday extravaganza is over and January is here. The kids are back in school and routines are being re-established; make it a priority to recharge yourself as well. It’s time to step out and “Go for it!”  If you took some time off of your workout routine over the holidays or are just getting started, no problem. Start simple, a  couple days a week and increase gradually.You can use your cross training as you re-establish your routine so you do not become injured or strain something. Your better health and well being will enable you to be an even more productive and well balanced individual.
Incorporating time for yourself is important, but so is the time with your family. Your children will love it when you play tag, hide and seek, kick the ball around, or shoot a couple baskets. A fun one on one game would enable you to laugh and interact with your children. If your kids are older, try going to a school around the track or an open field. We love to go to WISC fields to play soccer, football, field hockey… there are grass fields, astroturf fields and even Basketball courts. Bowling, Laser tag, Ice skating or even climbing ropes at “Going Ape” are  great  activities to keep everyone active and laughing.
If you do not do these activities, you can start or find something that is good for you and your family. If you find yourself stuck on what to do, you can ask your children for ideas and to even teach you. I am sure they would be excited to show you something new. Nothing serious but just a fun time to “mess around” with your family. What a great opportunity to be healthy for you and your child/children and to keep that solid relationship that you have with them.
As my children are getting older I personally have seen how keeping a well balanced relationship is vital. As each day is different for all of us and each family situation varies; taking care of yourself and continuously covering your relationships with your family members are very important.
Happy New Years to ALL, may January be exciting, fresh, and new for you and your families.
* If you have a question or topic for Juli to write on please email her at jzacharias@cox.net SUBJECT LINE: Ask Juli
Juli Zacharias lives in Williamsburg. She is 44 years old and a single mother to 4 children; now 19, 16, 14 and 11 years old. She works at Mother’s Day Out, substitutes for York County and is a Field Hockey official.  She started running at 13 years old and competed throughout High School and college in California.  Juli Zacharias was www.WilliamsburgFamilies.com’s runner in Christmas Town Dash 2012 and finished 3rd in her age category!  Many of you will know her from Mother’s Day Out at Williamsburg United Methodist Church.