There is sooo much in the world around us that is inspirational. From our New Zealand scenery to the variety and colour found in other countries. Often what I see forms the basis of my art. I want to see and do more so my aim for 2019 is to put things in place so I can lead a more active life.

There is no doubting the fact that I’ve reached middle age. Sobering thought! And as we grow older, sometimes there is a pull to slow down. But I’ve made the decision to be active as I age, perhaps more so than I have in the last year or two.

I have a number of reasons for making an active life a priority. One, there is so much I want to see and do. Two, I want to stay independent and healthy for as long as possible. Three, its addictive or perhaps that is too strong a word, its certainly enjoyable. Four, I love to take photos which I use for my art and walking lots or standing around is often the nature of the game. I’m sure there here are more reasons, what are yours?

There is a perceived notion that age can be a barrier to try new things; I want to dispel that myth.

MTB (Mountain Bike Riding)

As a child I was quite active, I road a bike everywhere. As an adult I’ve ridden one, too. However its been a bit spasmodic. With goals of riding some trails in New Zealand and overseas, I completed the Timber Trail with my husband in 2017. Talk about hard work, walked some, rode lots. Then a year or two back I completed a Mountain Bike skills course This was rather outside my comfort zone. However with a bit of practice I’m feeling a lot more confident in my abilities. Sometimes all it takes to overcome those thoughts of apprehension is going out with friends. Or taking things slow and doing the same track over and over until it becomes second nature.

Time for another Mountain Bike course and to get onto those grade 3 tracks.

From Walking to Running

Another active goal of mine is to run a whole 10km. In 2018 I entered a number of 10km races which I completed with a mixture of walking and jogging. At my age of 53 many might thinks its a bit late to be perusing this type of activity. However I think with the right preparation it can be achieved.

Included in my preparation is seeing a coach for a running program, which included stretches and strengthening exercises. Having good running shoes is a must. As well as realising that the journey will probably not follow a straight line and injuries are a real possibility. The fun is found in discovering just how much you can accomplish.

Outdoors, Travel and other things

I’ve always loved being outdoors, exploring, and walking. If you are travelling anywhere, in New Zealand or overseas having a certain level of fitness certainly helps. You get to appreciate things more when you have prepared in advance. So running or getting on a mountain bike might not be your thing, but being active by doing lots of walking can certainly be of benefit.

I’ve recently started videoing some of the Mountain Bike trails I’ve been on. The trails are currently for beginners just to show people that its not scary at all. But its also to remind me of what I’m capable of. And on the days when I don’t think I’ve been active, I have evidence! The videos have been uploaded to my YouTube channel There will also be art related videos at some point so make sure you subscribe. As a side note, you will see some skiing related videos too. I only started skiing again in 2018 after some 30 years. So anything is possible.

This quote certainly sums things up “Onward up many a frightening creek, though your arms may get sore and your sneakers may leak. Oh! The places you’ll go!” 
― Dr. Seuss, Oh, The Places You’ll Go!