Back to nature

Well, today I was in my froggy element. Back to nature. While some wires were crossed, and the whole crew could not show up for the hike, Kristin and I met at the hotel parking, and then contacted Sophia who took us on a wonderful hike in Oak Park Community Park. The others were obviously experienced hikers and were kind enough to slow their pace for me, a very inexperienced hiker, but I had a wonderful time out in the air and sunshine, doing some mild climbing, some just walking and a bit of crossing water. It was a glorious day, the sun was shining and for an hour we talked, chatted, laughed, and admired each other. There is something to be said for exercise. Right now, I feel as if I have conquered another barricade.
Last night I was at the gym, having the whole thing to myself, and I was a bit leery to do one of the exercises that Mike gave me this week, not being sure that I wouldn't fall off the ball. So after I had spent an hour doing all the other stuff, and I was ready to go, I said, "Oh what the hell, how far could I fall, and Rosie would find me if I knock myself out" so I sat myself down on that ball, and walked out till just my head was on the ball, held for several seconds, and walked myself back up, remembering what Mike had said to do, drop my butt, and back up against the ball. When I was back sitting on the ball, no one could have been more surprised that I was. I did it 4 more times! So this morning, when I considered the hike and thought that it might be too much for me, I thought of last night and said again, "oh what the hell". But without the encouragement of Sophia and Kristin, I couldn't have done it. I know it wasn't much for them, but for me it was a revelation. I really could do it, although I know that they took it easy on me, I did it. Ladies, you are my heroes. Thanks so much for making this new victory possible. I am beginning to believe that all is possible--that the weight will come off, the body will be conditioned, and the mind will clear and stop thinking that I can't. Mike seemed impressed when I said in our session, "I can do that" and I could. I hope to be saying it more often. So what is absolutely necessary is a positive attitude and good friends who are willing to help. When I got home, I had to call my brother, and my daughter. I was so proud. It has been years since I hiked, but I hope it won't ber years until I do again. I can recommend the fresh air. It makes you feel new.