Out and About – Week of April 2nd

I mention this every year, because I think it’s interesting that I’ve never run out of something to say every week for the past twelve years. There have been many changes over the years. Some were good and some not so good, but like everyone else, I’ve done what I can to adapt to them. I have a nicer office. The perfect place to put my thoughts down on paper and share them with you. I couldn’t ask for a nicer “Man-Cave”. I am thankful for the opportunity to write this column, and more than that, I am very appreciative of the support I’ve received from you readers. As always, the purpose of this column is to entertain, inform and be as positive as I can make it. This world has its problems. It always has and always will. All we can do is love and laugh more and try not be so sensitive when it comes to what others might say about us. It wouldn’t hurt for each of us to be more responsible for our actions and not blame someone else for our failures.

It is now time for “Out and About” to start year number thirteen.

Here are more rules, or good advice, to pass on to the younger generation:

Don’t let a wishbone grow where a backbone should be.
If you need music on the beach, you’re missing the point.
For the guys. Carry two handkerchiefs. The one in your back pocket is for you. The one in your breast pocket is for her.
If you marry the girl, you marry her family. The same can be said for the boy.
Be like a duck. Remain calm on the surface and paddle like crazy underneath.
Experience the serenity of traveling alone.
Another one for the guys. Never be afraid to ask out the best-looking girl in the room.
Never turn down a breath mint.
A sport coat is worth 1000 words.
Try writing your own eulogy. Never stop revising.
This is April, which means we can expect some rainy days. After all, “April showers bring May flowers”. I don’t recall anything about April snow, but this is Michigan, so anything is possible.

With spring in the air, the idea of going for a run seems more enjoyable than it might during the winter months, although I know several who run, or trot, year around. I much prefer to walk inside and with someone, but that’s just me. The chance of being chased by a hungry dog is less of a threat if you run inside at a health facility. Here are a few helpful hints, should you decide to brave the elements and run with Mother Nature:

When running down a hill and reaching a really sharp decline, shorten your step and take a zigzag path to the bottom. By doing so it will lessen the stress on your muscles and joints, which will also reduce the risk of extra soreness or injuries common to downhill running.
If running in very cold conditions, cover your exposed skin with petroleum jelly. This will help you to keep warm by slowing the loss of body heat and will also protect your skin against drying and chapping.
My doctor has recommended that it is better to keep time in mind rather than distance when running or walking. Start with maybe 20 minutes three or four times a week, then increase it to 45 minutes over several weeks.
It’s recommended to check with your family doctor prior to beginning any exercise plan.
Respect is earned, honesty is appreciated, trust is gained, and loyalty is returned.

See you Out and About!

Submitted by Norm Stutesman