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.
