It's a beautiful day in the Umpqua Valley, sun is out, birds are chirping, and I'm happy.  Did my stretches this morning first thing and then headed out  - down the hill, up the hill, down the hill, & up the hill.  Oh my, I must find just a little more level ground.  Today's walk lasted a good twenty minutes.  & I plan to keep it there for a few more days before I increase the route.  I must admit that my legs aren't always happy and I must always allot some recovery time, but I'm amazed at how much endurance I can build.  I'm optimistic I can walk all three miles on April 14 in Portland and I'm also very happy to have a plan B!
Did a little artwork and now am on a cleaning kick - it must be the spring-like weather.  It is also just wonderful to have energy to do things - I had forgotten how that felt!  I'm heading for more cleaning - closet - watch out!!

The Beginning

I thought some of you may enjoy following my preparation for the 2012 Portland MS Walk, so here is the beginning.  Last week I determined my health is stable enough to start walking. Now this is after years of limited mobility, use of a cane, and sometimes a chair, so it's a big leap of faith and trust in my body.  I set out to walk around our block which includes two hills.  After several days walking around the block I have now extended the route to 15 minutes.  It's great to be outside and it gives me a big sense of accomplishment.  Today was difficult.  My legs are weak and it has taken 2 hours to recover from my walk.  All my life I have taken walking for granted and just trekked off on my merry way.  Since my time of limited mobility I treasure every day that walking comes easily.
With the nod to my history, I should also say that I've added stretching to the routine in addition to watching my calorie intake.  I'm still hung up on sugar, but each day gets a little better in that regard.  Going gluten-free, and limiting dairy, eggs, & legumes has helped with my energy level and keeps the pain down.  When I have a slow day I adjust my activities, meaning it's a good day to sit, sketch and paint.
I'm not sure just how frequently I will write in this blog, but I hope to get into a routine.  You are welcome to read, question, and join my on my journey.  We can always use more friends in MS Walks across the nation.  I will let you know about our team as it develops.
That's it for today.  I'm living the present one day at a time.
Cindy