Long Walk

I promised myself that I would get outside and walk. I so need to regain strength. Yesterday was time for my Vitamin B shot, and I forgot to take it, so today I am exhausted. But I take the shot and then go walk. My friend from last week couldn't walk this week due to other social engagements, so Sugar and I brave it alone. At least there is no wind to bother Sugar.

We start along the canal walk and the glorious sun beams down on us with gusto. The canal is still almost empty of water, a skinny greenish brown puddle ripples in the bottom of the canal, but others are out walking their dogs or jogging or just enjoying the weather. I pass the turnoff to the park and keep going. I know that this path stretches to Manitou Road and beyond. I am not sure I can walk all the way to Manitou Road. It is a good mile or more, but Sugar is certainly game.

Once we get beyond the trees and out in the open fields, I can see the bridge at Manitou Road. It seems like a reasonable distance, so I head confidently in that direction. Joggers pass. Dog walkers pass. Little children pass. I know I am slow, but there is no hurry. After what seemed a long time, I don't appear to be any closer to the darn bridge than I was 20 minutes ago. I keep plodding along. Ten minutes later, I am still just as far away. My eyes are playing tricks with my legs!

I make a good effort, but I finally remind myself that I have to walk back the whole way I have come, and I turn around. My hips are beginning to hurt and my legs are tired. Still, it is a beautiful day. Sugar is having a grand time greeting every moving thing that comes our way. She wriggles with delight and sniffs like crazy. Thank goodness there are no bicycles to be concerned about today.

After a bit of concerted effort, the pine trees slide into view following quickly by the handful of houses clustered by Henpeck Park where we left the car. I am relieved to see them, though not overwhelmed by the walk. Sugar is panting slightly, but acquiesces to my request to get in the car. It has been a good start. Now if I can just keep the momentum going!