Walks

How often do you walk or run?

Every day.

Lately, I’ve been walking most mornings on the boardwalk. Often I add a little run as I pass people. It’s a nice quick two and a half miles. It starts and ends in a hilly park with lovely trees. It makes me miss my friend every time I go. She and I used to walk the beach wall in California. Our fast paced four miles would go by quickly. We talked and walked and laughed as we sped along.

The other day I was changing my podcast and someone passed me.

Shirley and I pass people, fellow walkers never pass us. Bikes do, runners do, but I rarely see another fast walker. I sped up. I thought about and missed Shirley. It seemed like everybody else had friends to walk with that day. It’s harder to be motivated without my good friend. The distance feels longer without her.

I also have my on-the- beach-walking friends who I also miss terribly. This little posse’ of friends used our long walks to plan celebrations, solve problems and keep our vibrations high. We figured out digital yoga during the pandemic, kept our community strong and found so much to be thankful for. Whether two or sixth or eight of us were available, every walk included a moment to pause and take in our beautiful surroundings. This is a group that knows how to celebrate and laugh, and really take in and appreciate life. I miss them all so much.

I miss my people.

After dinner I’ve been walking with Gs mom. Sometimes the three of us go. It’s a nice stroll around the block past charming cottages jumbled together without fences. Sometimes we go as far as a pleasure beach. Neighbors are friendly, the sunset skies are beautiful, the evening air is refreshingly cool.

Walking is my favorite exercise. It’s my favorite way to connect with friends and family. It’s a good time to listen to music or a podcast. It’s a good way to explore a new place. I love my different walking times and places. I used to run. Occasionally I still do.