April 29, 2025 Breaking News, Latest News, and Videos

Good Taste: Take a Hike!

By Barbara Bishop

A couple of years ago, I helped to create the Rotary of Santa Monica’s “Healthy Living” committee. Our role was to organize a healthy outing every few months. I don’t think anyone remembers that I helped to create the committee; the month it was created I took a leave from Rotary.

Two years later, after my leave was up, I joined the now-thriving Healthy Living Committee.

I agreed to help arrange a hike at Will Rogers Park. We planned an 8:30 a.m. hike on a 2-mile trail. From there, we were to take a tour of Will Roger’s home, and then partake in a potluck brunch with the group that participated in the activity.

The hike was this past weekend. I bounded out of bed, and discovered I had no real hiking clothes. I used to, but I guess I got rid of them. So I wore a black t-shirt, black yoga pants, and a black and white long scarf, with slip on walking shoes. So fancy for a hike.

We all met at the park (my first time) and quickly began the hike. Ok, the only exercise I’ve been getting is when I walk my dog around the block in the morning, and an occasional yoga class. It began slightly uphill. I was getting winded very fast. But within a couple of minutes, I hit my stride. We hiked up to Inspiration point, then down to where we started. I made it! I was so thrilled. It was life changing for me.

I had injured my back from over-training for the L.A. Marathon a couple of years ago. I haven’t been the same since. So slowly, I stopped exercising. It was sad for me. I loved hiking and thought I could never do it again. Until Saturday.

It was fun, exhilarating. I was sweating. My heart was pounding. I got a tan. I was exercising again! It’s so easy to fall off the exercise wagon. And so hard to get back on. But thanks to the Santa Monica Rotary Club, I now have the confidence to do it again.

Most of all, thank you Will Rogers, for preserving your beautiful homestead for all of us to enjoy. You’ve left a wonderful legacy; and a renewed sense of energy, hope and self-esteem for me.

Good taste with barbara bishop
The ranch’s original patio.
Good Taste with Barbara Bishop
Will Rogers Ranch today.
Good taste with Barbara Bishop
Inside the ranch.
Good taste with Barbara Bishop
Guests at the ranch.
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