Hitting the Trail

Tonight my daughter was making cupcakes with supplies that were given to her on her birthday. I gave oversight to this project until it was time to ice them. They smelled very yummy and fresh and I had flashbacks to the last cake episode that began with a lick of icing from my fingers (Cake Confessions). I solemnly told my daughter that I could not help her with this part of her cupcake-making and decided that I better find something to do. She was very understanding and even apologized for tempting me.

I needed to exercise anyways. With Shawn on the computer, Trysten watching cartoons and Paris developing her culinary skills in the kitchen, I decided to venture outdoors for a 5K walk/jog along the recreational trail near my home. I changed my clothes, gathered my Ipod, Gymboss (a wonderful gadget that times and beeps to signal when it's time to switch between my walking and jogging intervals), runners, the leash and a bag. That was all I needed to do to alert my Yorkie, Milo, that we were going out. She began to whimper in anticipation before I could lace up and get to the door!

As we set off, I realized that this was the first walk/jog that I have undertaken since May (read Unexpected Exercise Delight). It was hot early this spring, then I got my new bike and since then running shoes were not part of my summer routine. I enjoy these outdoor jaunts especially with Milo trotting along with me so happy to be outside. I felt a twinge of regret. The evening was so cool and pleasant that it is impossible to wallow in guilt for very long. I love that Milo doesn't complain about the months of neglect and the pathetic walks my children take her on. She just relished what I had to offer here and now. Dogs are wonderful for that!

At one point as I alternated between my brisk stride and slow jog along the path by Turkey Creek, I noticed a deer drinking from an upturned mini recycle bin in one of the palatial yards that backs on the the opposite bank. I'm constantly in awe of these moments even though they are quite common here. Take the recreational trail at dawn or dusk and you're very likely to see deer in the bush, in a field or even on the trail itself. It is a sight that never fails to take my breath away and make me smile. It is special and I feel blessed to experience it.

There is a portion of the trail that is very wooded and bushy and I noticed today that it was so overgrown that the trees have almost joined together above the trail. It was a feeling akin to being in a haunted forest and I was glad that Milo was with me and it was still daylight even though it doesn't seem so for the brief foray into this cave-like section of the path. This is when running with a human partner is a good plan!

I expected the change of exercise to be punishing but was pleasantly surprised by the ease with which my body adapted to the demands. Even Milo was in pretty good form considering that she was out of practise. It wasn't until the last quarter of the workout that I began to feel the complaints of my hips and knees. That is a familiar ending to this exercise choice and the reason I typically limit myself to two such workouts a week even at my best.

Coming back to the house, I met up with a neighbor and had the opportunity to chat for a couple minutes as we headed in the same direction. This was a rare exchange for me due to my work and leisure choices. It is good when you are able to do something healthy that has such a varied benefit. The raised heart rate & sweat, fresh air, the calm & serenity of nature, bringing happiness to a faithful pet, adventure and comrade with others on the trail and in the neighborhood. What a wonderful way to end the day! So why don't we do this more often?