Walking with Style
As per doctor orders
(which I have successfully ignored for years) I am making a better effort in
retirement to do a daily walk.
I get up early and put in my laps at a little park that offers a walking track next to a playground with picnic tables.
I always walk with headphones and traditionally listened to the latest audio book in my queue. But a few weeks ago I decided I needed a little inspiration so I turned to my music playlist “Dance Empowerment.” Those are songs that make me feel stronger and makes it impossible to simply walk around the track.
The park is often quiet and empty of other people during my morning walks, but from time to time there are teenagers sitting at the picnic tables. As I have added music to my morning, I am finding that my walking is a bit more jaunty. I am concerned that the other guests in the park may be worried if they notice the spastic dance moves and the arm waving that is happening when I pass them.
Therefore, it seems beneficial to take a moment to explain my erratic behavior in a letter.
Dear Park Buddies,
Although we do not know one another, we are together many mornings. I get to the track to put in my doctor-recommended exercise and you are there to be with your friends as you wait for the last minute rush to school.
We are in two different orbits. Mine is a literal obit around the track and yours is a social orbit with friends. But you may have noticed me and I want to explain any unusual behavior so you don’t feel a need to call adult services.
If I am double stepping (which you may see as stumbling) it means the song is reminding me that I can not only survive today but can thrive today!
If I am fist pumping at the sky, it is probably a Disney tune where the hero has accepted a challenge.
If my arms are raised over my head, swaying like a Holy Roller it must be Sunday and I am getting my Jesus on by listening to some Christian artists.
If I am slapping at my shoulders and legs, it is because I live in the land of mosquitoes. This is not a dance move.
Please continue to ignore as you have always done, and do not take pictures for your social media.
Sincerely,
PS. You will want to
make a note that the truant officer makes a sweep of the park right after the
tardy bell rings at the high school.
Please note the
photo of my Skullcandy headphones. Just brand-naming so my younger readers will
be impressed.
When I take my walks I often see people doing as you have described and for me who listens to music when walking or riding my bike, I say they must be listening to some good music. Love your blog, keep doing what you're doing.
ReplyDeleteI have never been good at exercising but it has been 3 months of walking at least 5 times a week and I am finding I enkoy it once I get myself out of bed and on the track.
DeleteWe can keep each other motivated. I'm trying different things, as I shared with you I tried Jazzercise on Saturday, I bike ride 3 - 4 days a week so now I'm trying to see what other exercises I can try :-)
DeleteI LOVE IT!!! This put a big smile on my face this morning.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the encouragement. I write these to laugh at myself, but if others laugh with me it is even better!
DeleteI love this!!
ReplyDeleteOh Nancy I love your blogs. When I retired, I began walking early each morning except Sunday. In 2016 cancer interrupted my early morning walks due to being very tired and often ill from the chemo. The treatment left my body weak. But I knew I had to resume walking as part of the recovery. At first I only had strength to walk to my mailbox and back, like 30 steps. Every 2 weeks the distance increased. Now I walk 2 1/2 miles a day except on Sunday. I don’t listen to music. I pray and praise God for another day. As you know after cancer, every day is a day of Gods grace and mercy. Keep up the good work and keep writing!
ReplyDeleteI can relate to this one totally.....not that I'm walking in the park but how I think the younger generations might see me!! :)
ReplyDeleteI love this!1
Yes! I remember when I thought people in their 40's were old. I am aware that I have entered "ancient" to many of the new generation.
DeleteOMG…I am laughing at your walking antics. You should make a copy of the letter and put it on the picnic table.
ReplyDelete"I am getting my Jesus on" is my favorite line. You are so funny! You have a gift for writing - especially imagery. I love reading your blogs.
ReplyDelete