“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”

~ Lao Tzu

By Friday evening we have finished up to the Chippewa River segment, just before Cornell WI. We have hiked 189 miles. The road segments have been long, warm and challenging on my joints with my rheumatoid. However, the wooded trail segments, despite their many ups and downs, have been gorgeous and enjoyable!

Friday evening we hopped off the trail for two days to celebrate one of the most important men in our lives, my Father-In-Law, Dave Reimer~ who turned 80. We were looking forward to seeing our family and wouldn’t miss this event for anything. Family first always. We spent Sunday with our kids, grandkids and my Mother before heading back to the trail to start again today (Monday). We have planned “zero days” (days with no miles) within our hike to make sure we can attend special family events. Only 2 more months to go! 😳

My granddaughter Bella has been drawing pictures of us hiking and sending them to me daily. They make me smile knowing she is thinking about what our adventure must be like. She once said to me, “Nana, you and Papa are the most adventurous people I know”. Our grandchildren are watching and showing them how to stay active and healthy as we age is an important lesson to pass on.

My granddaughter Evelyn loves frogs, toads and snakes. Every time a frog or tiny toad crosses our path I shout out, “watch out for Evy!” I try to send her as many photos of critters as I can.

Our bodies have adjusted to the constant rigor of the trail and we are doing very well. Tim has lost 10 lbs in 12 days which we know is not ideal. We continue to re-evaluate our daily and weekly goals to make sure they are healthy and achievable. We are not trying to set any sort of speed record. I feel like I’m able to spend less time focusing on my body aches and more time taking in the details of the trail. Here are some of my recent photos:

I hope you have signed up for the Move More Challenge! If Tim and I inspire one person to reach a personal movement/fitness goal, we would consider our challenge a success!

2023 Move More Challenge: The WPA 1200 

Thank you to everyone for the words of support!

https://wiparkinson.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/wiparkinson/donation.jsp?campaign=274&&test=true

Stay well and keep moving!