It has been more than a week since I have worked out. I was diagnosed with another sinus infection and have been taking an antibiotic for three days. I am just beginning to feel better and realize that I am starting over with my exercise routine because I am discouraged and procrastinating.

I can think of ten things, right off the bat, which I would rather do than work out. I need inspiration. I need a reason to get back into my schedule. So when I try to tell myself that I am too busy or simply just don’t feel like it, I think of the beach.

Not just any beach. I have a certain beach in mind. The sand is soft and white and the powerful waves crash into the shore, playing a soothing lullaby for anyone close enough to listen. The sunshine warms my skin and gives it a golden glow. This beach is about relaxing in the sun, catching up on good books and spending quality time with my husband and friends.

My dream of the beach includes a beautiful resort, a swimsuit-ready body and new summer vacation clothes. I dream about tanks tops that show off my toned arms and pretty dresses to accentuate a smaller waist. The way I feel in my lighter body gives me even more enjoyment during the trip. I love that my flat stomach is the perfect resting spot for the fruity drink with a suggestive name that is brought out to me as I lay by the pool and soak up the sun shining down from the pale blue sky.

The vacation is planned and the vision is there. I have work to do to fulfill my vacation dream of a smaller, lighter and toned body. It will not be easy, but it will be completely worth it. I can almost feel the soft, light material of a flowing skirt as it brushes across my legs as I exit the plane. My new sandals will click, click as I walk feeling happy and accomplished for obtaining my goal: a thinner and healthier me for the trip and afterwards.

So I get back on the workout wagon. My vacation in four months is inspiring me to exercise.