Geriatric

Early in the summer I chopped a trail about 15 feet long through a briar patch to access a few more black berries. A month later I made it 20 feet longer to access some prickly ash berries (Some Indian tribes used these as their primary medicine.)(If you think about the misfortune of having “prick” and “ass” in your name, you’ll be able to remember this small tree’s name.)(Now where was I?)(I was just reading that Alzheimers has been linked to type III diabetes, which is linked to processed food). When I hacked my way further in to haul out some litter from previous owners, I realized that I could make this a regular path, so I smoothed it out a little.

“How nice” I thought. Then it occurred to me that if it was kept level, it would go through other unexplored areas all the way to the pond. While I was clearing this extension, an inspiration hit me to use my laser level and make a level path all the way to the end of my land!

I recalled several visitors over the years who weren’t able or willing to walk up any of my inclines due to health problems. This level path would be ideal for them… and for me when I’m feeling low energy… or when I’m feeble.

This is how the GERIATRIC TRAIL was born.

It’s partially complete now. Some steep slopes need more work, and I avoided killing any trees.  It actually winds more because it stays level around the ravines, making this jaunt very soothing and relaxing. I’m actually surprised at how easy and comfortable it is compared to the times I take other paths, all containing inclines. These observations coincide with my theory on why certain locations have a preponderance of centenarians. The elderly in these places still walk up and down rugged terrain, which is an incredibly good (and subconscious) cardiovascular workout for them. This also supports my theory that if you’re in pain or discomfort while working out, you’re WASTING YOUR TIME! Those people you see who are grimacing while jogging down the sidewalk with barbells are actually killing themselves (more of that illusion stuff).

I do love my shovel, though. I do feel a need to step outside in the sun and do something strenuous each day. Another reason why the cold, dark winter sucks.

Almost a quarter of a mile long, the Geriatric Trail never varies by more than five feet, up or down. Near its end, the steep slope prevents any other type of access, ensuring complete privacy. Trees marked with colored elevation markers…

Oh, Hell. Let’s take a walk along it right now. The fall colors are almost at their peak, and you don’t have to cross your eyes. [rolling my eyes]. We’ll have to rush because I want a short video, my camera battery has limits, and I want to time how long it takes. 😉

[It’s kind of fuzzy, so try to enjoy the colors.]