Credentials...what credentials...and other random reflections...

1/12/2018 Blog #8 Credentials…what credentials…and other random reflections…

I thought as an adult I would be a “KIA”. I’m not talking about the car…I mean a “KIA” aka “Know It All”. Yet, as I sit on the cusp of being crowned a senior citizen, I realize I’m more confused than ever. I’ve worn many hats through the years… Wife, mother, sister, friend, health professional, caregiver, friendly pest, pain in the derriere, partner in wine, back porch party organizer…just to name a few… And I’ve always thought of myself as “not just a regular mom, but a cool mom” to quote Regina George’s Mother on Mean Girls.

I often reflect upon my lovely professional career and credentials… (Nationally Certified Medical Exercise Specialist, Youth Fitness Specialist, Behavioral Change Coaching Specialist, Health Coach/ Educator, Personal Trainer, Group Fitness Instructor, Senior Fitness and Functional Aging, B.S. Degree in Health Science/ Kinesiology, Marathon Runner, Subject Matter Expert for a National Credentialing Organization, A Business Owner, a Corporate Wellness Program Director/ Coordinator, a 35-year career in clinical/ Preventive healthcare) Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah …

A year ago I made a very difficult decision. The "Mamma" in me prevailed. I put it all on the back burner to care for a struggling family member and be an advocate for seniors and special needs children. Did I make the right decision? I don’t know. I think we all have times of reflection on the would’ve, could’ve and should’ve-s of life.

So, anyway, last week while filling in as a substitute teacher at the local high school, I overheard some young athletes discussing their training regimens and upcoming events. Since such topics are my passion and specialty, I thought I could casually slide-in and be included in this delightful conversation without coming across as a “KIA”. Surely I could make a positive impact, after all, it is my area of expertise. Well, I’ve always heard about the ol’ “stink eye”, but had never officially experienced it until that precious moment. I knew right then I had lost my “cool card.” All I could come up with was a “train smart and good luck” wish as I took my posterior tibial tendonitis, torn lateral meniscus and bunion back to the teacher’s desk.

Hmmmmm… I wonder if I really am going to end up just an old lady with a cat. I’m certainly well on my way. I’ve got three plus the neighbor’s 7-toed cat that has adopted us…

“Honey, time marches on and eventually you realize it’s marching across your face” -Truvy Steel Magnolia’s