Crush

After I had graduated college, I continued to live in Lakeville and did some substitute teaching. I applied for a few teaching jobs and later had my first post-college interview in Stillwater at a private school.  They ended up offering me a .6 position as a physical education teacher (which meant I wasn’t full time). I prayed about it and later ended up turning it down.  My dad really scratched his head when I made that decision. In his eyes, a job was better than no job, but for me, I wanted to be in a position that felt right.

 I later had an interview in the Shakopee school district and accepted a long-term full time teaching assignment. I had to smile because I trusted God that He’d provide when I turned down the first assignment and of course He did!

The long-term subbing position led to me being hired for three years after that. I had the opportunity to team teach with many different people. I was an itinerant teacher. I traveled between two schools every year except for one. Every class had two physical education teachers in it with two full classes. It was great. I had the opportunity to learn the ropes from some seasoned vets and we had a blast in the process. I like to keep things light-hearted and fun. You can’t take life too seriously. You have to learn to laugh at yourself when you make mistakes and continue to grow through the process.

After figuring out the south metro was where I was going to plant some roots, my sister convinced me it was time for me to join the Taj Mahal of the fitness world, Life Time. My sister and I would often workout together and compromise in the process. She was the queen of cardio and I preferred lifting.  I was training for a figure competition when I switched gyms.

At the top of the steps of the workout floor sits the personal training desk. The faces of the trainers became familiar after several trips to the gym and a few small talk conversations.

There was a trainer who I thought was attractive, his name was Steve. He was about 5’10” with a stocky muscular build; what I consider to be my “type” in terms of physique.  He was very smiley and social and I’d always see him zipping around the gym like he was on a mission. He’d say hi and usually strike up a small talk conversation. He was definitely older than me, but I wasn’t sure how much older.

I proceeded to take my post on the elliptical for some cardio when I noticed in the mirror “Mr. on a mission” was approaching me. He made some sassy remark, and asked me what I was doing.

“I’m just getting my cardio in.”  I responded.  “Well, you should come to my boxing class.”   “When is it?” “I asked. It starts in ten minutes.”   “Okay, I’ll go.”

I proceeded to get off my machine, trying not to display too much excitement, wiped down my machine and followed him to the MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) room. I was actually relieved that I could switch up my regular cardio routine and trade it for something I hadn’t done before. Of course it wasn’t in my nature to turn down a challenge either.

My sister Melia embarked on this adventure with me. She was and still is my sidekick so it was only fitting that she’d be my boxing partner. Class started and Steve explained the basics of how to punch, proper boxing stance and different types of punches.

Oh man, what did I get myself into? Boxing is quite the workout! Definitely not the type of sport you can muscle your way through, although many people try and I have to admit I did too. I did my best to “float like a butterfly” and my lungs were stinging like a bee. Mel and I were giggling in-between punches trying to get the hang of things. We were getting our butts whooped, but it felt good!

I have to admit that my mind wasn’t totally focused on boxing. Many questions raced through my mind…I wonder how old he is? I wonder if he has a girlfriend? He probably has a girlfriend. I wonder what he’s all about? Would he ever date me? I’m probably too young for him. Gosh, he’s handsome and he has really nice legs!

In-between my hooks and jabs, I’d glance around the room to see where he was. Truth be told, I didn’t even have to look. When someone peaks your interest you instinctively know where he or she is.

We finished boxing and thanked Steve for the great workout. Mel and I walked out of the MMA room and proceeded to have girl talk about Steve.  “You were right, about switching gyms. I think I made a good decision.”

 

To Be Continued…