Back in the saddle

August 30, 2009

Two weeks ago today, I was hiking on the John Muir Trail out of Tuolomne Meadows with a 45 pound backpack, a whole lot of enthusiasm, and stellar companionship to share in the adventure. I had trained for this trip; ramped up my runs, added in some hill work, increased squats and lunges–and it turns out that all the additional preparation was well needed and helpful. The four-day, 32 mile backpack was a marvelous summer experience. And very physically challenging.

To my surprise and dismay, I became ill on the tail end of the last day, with what evolved into a significant flu. The “it will take 10 days to get over this” advice I received was right on target, and today was the first day I have felt up to exercising. Oh but how I have missed it! The first few flu days were dedicated to staying in bed or on the futon in the sunroom, content to let life pass me by. Little by little, I felt better, began to venture out of the house, but became easily fatigued, so that any glimmer of exercise consideration became quickly dashed.

Ah, but not this morning. John and I honored our standing Sunday morning bike ride date, and with just a bit of trepidation on my part, off we went. It was glorious! Cool morning air, birds singing, soothing sunshine, burning quads, and tight chest… yes, I felt the effects of not having been on my bike for over two weeks, as well as the remnants of the respiratory illness, but ahhh, it was just so grand to be able to exercise again!

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Robin Mallery

Robin Mallery is passionate about food! Starting from where and how it's grown, to how far that food travels to the dinner table, to how it is prepared and savored...Robin blends shopping, cooking, and eating tips with her unique Kitchen Zen and mindful meals approach to enjoying real food.

While you are waiting for her to finish the upcoming book, "Kitchen Zen: The Journey to Nourish Body and Soul in Our Changing World", you can find Robin's sporadic blog posts here or on FaceBook.