Is there really such thing as a leisurely hike?

So I just want you to know that I’m laughing as I’m creating this blog post!!! You see, there are just so many things to laugh about…

Here is a picture of me a year ago at El Moro Canyon State Park in Laguna Beach, CA. Notice the hat falling into my eyes… now that’s laughable!

El Moro 2012

In this picture, it was a pleasant temperature for a hike… we spent about an hour hiking. It was a lovely time. But today is AUGUST! It’s much warmer than in the Spring. We anticipated it being warm, so we were hiking by 8:30 AM. It was wonderful to be there with friends and family, enjoying the occasional cool canyon breeze and the sounds of nature.

What I learned from this hike…

OK, so it needs to be mentioned that at times, living with an athletic powerhouse of a daughter can have its advantages. One, I have a personal trainer in my home – way cool. However, the downside is I see her more than I see myself in the mirror, so I often forget my age and abilities. This is especially challenging when shopping for clothes, but that’s another blog post! So, I’ve learned…

1. I really am 57 years old not 27, definitely not my daughter’s age, and must remember to condition for a 2 hour hike in the heat.
2. Children are responsible for carrying their own water, and desired backpacks, sticks or other paraphernalia. What this means is Grandma is not your pack mule for your water, sticks and beloved rocks you want to bring back home. And don’t try to sneak your rocks into the backpack Grandma didn’t bring but is now wearing. Oh, and your water… when you get to the end of the trail and realize Grandma has your water (mainly because you didn’t want to carry it) and is still 500 feet behind you, please be patient when she arrives and needs water herself before she takes off your pack.
3. Though I consider myself to be physically fit because I enjoy running for 30 minutes a few times each week, that doesn’t mean I’m in shape to run up and down hills or pull little kids up hills when they refuse to go any further.
4. Gratitude statements and power poses really WORK to get you up the next hill!
5. I am still capable of pushing myself in difficult situations, and still able to use wisdom to act when I see a short cut to the finish!

I’m sure there is so much more that I learned, but I’m exhausted and ready for a nap! I would just like to thank Marisa Liu for being a supportive hiking buddy. I couldn’t have made it without you!!!

About Loretta

As a grandmother of 6 fabulous grandsons, I like to keep myself in good physical condition to be able to enjoy being active with them when ever the occasion arises. I believe in eating well and exercising often to insure a better quality of life as I age. I am grateful for the support of my wonderful husband in all my endeavors.