Apparently, I always loved getting in shape.

As I look at the calendar, I can't help but ponder the fact that it was about a year ago that I decided to become a personal trainer. My somewhat disappointing life in Grand Rapids had come to an end, and my enrollment at Blue Heron Academy suddenly took on a new meaning—getting certified as a personal trainer would no longer be a side project. It would be a gigantic career move. And I couldn't wait.

Funny thing is, I think I've always had fitness in my blood.

Yep, that's me at the tender ages of five and seven. Get In Shape Girl toys were my absolute favorite! If you look really closely at the first picture, you'll see weighted bangles on each of my wrists—hardcore, right?! And in the other, I am wearing a sweet crop-top Get In Shape Girl tee. (Not sure why I paired it with my mom's old slip, though.) I would "work out" all the time, and sometimes I'd even "train" my sister.

Notice my protective right arm? I clearly understood that client safety was important—God forbid she fall backwards off a 1" tall balance beam. (And God forbid she get hurt on my watch.)

Time truly does tell all, I guess. It's well over 20 years later and I still love getting in shape. I just don't own the sweet crop-top tee anymore, nor would I ever wear it now. But I do still train my sister on occasion. (I kicked her butt about a week ago—sorry Aly!)