Not just a walk in the park

A few days ago I decided to have breakfast before I went to work. So I went to the Airport Cafe, had a delicious breakfast, watched a couple planes and enjoyed the crowd.

When I finished eating, it was still early, so I took one of my drives around the old part of town where I grew up. Places and things sure change through the years. After driving and looking things over, it was still early. I wound up at the West Park, so I decided to sit and enjoy the beautiful day for a while. As I sat under the pavilion looking about me, I thought, 'Hmm, I haven't walked in forever. Wonder if I could make it around the track once?' Slowly, I walked to the little bridge. I looked around the track, back at the bench, back at the track. Finally, a decision was made. I was going to go for it.

So, here I go, not walking, but moseying around the track. As I got around the curve and on to the first long stretch, I looked down that long road. Man, it sure looked like a long way from where I was to the next curve. I kept going at a snail's pace, then I came upon a sitting area. Thank God for Arvin Meritor for donating that area to the park. Needless to say, I took advantage of it. As I sat there, I was thinking, 'Which way is the shortest distance to my van'? After pondering the situation, I proceeded to head toward the next curve which was next to Business 60.

Although it was an absolutely gorgeous day, I was getting a little hot. I spied a couple more sitting places, and by this time I was looking longingly at them. I picked out the one I thought was closer to me, but the nearer I got, I could tell it was the furthest away.

By this time, I'm breathing pretty hard, so I cut across the grass to get to one of those wonderful seats. As I looked about, I saw a couple walking so I thought I would just wait until they got past me. After a few minutes, I realized they also were resting, so I cautiously started walking again.

I met a sweet couple coming toward me and I noticed she was doing much better than I was, and she was using a cane. I mumbled to myself, "Shame on you, Kathleen!' We said good morning and they asked how I was doing. I replied, "Just as soon as I reach that van I will be great." We had a good laugh at that.

As I got closer to the van, it dawned on me it wasn't mine. Mine was 'way on up yonder'. Oh my. At last I made it and as I slid onto those nice soft seats, I sighed a sigh of relief. I did it. Might not mean much to you, but it was a gold star for me.

Now all this from a lady who for many years walked daily, faithfully and even wore out a treadmill. But the last few years I have been on the sidelines.

I must say, after I rested a bit, I felt better than I have in, well, I couldn't tell you how long. Since that day I have been taking mini walks trying to get back into some sort of shape. If you happen to see me, don't just shake your head in bewilderment. Breathe a prayer for me, or you may even need to give me a push.

See ya next time somewhere in a 'korner'.

kdover@gmail.com - www.dailystatesman.com - 573-820-2404