Massage Between the Miles

Another 14 miles on the journey today and still time for a massage. I'm the one who really needed the massage! Actually, Lily is one of my favorite massage clients. She goes all soft when I put my hands on her and she goes into a very deep relaxation.

Lily, a Rottie/Dobie mix, had an injury in 2005 resulting in a spinal embolism, paralyzing her. She was walking again 9 months later but continued to have weakness and instability in her back and in her hind legs. And because she started to carry more of her weight on her front legs she has now developed arthritis in her front elbow. After beginning a massage program Lily's mobility improved and her activity level has increased. Her playtime with her Dobie brother, Baxter, can be quite vigorous and rambunctious. As a matter of fact, immediately following today's massage, Baxter enticed her into a game of wrestle and chase. Lily charged down the stairs after him. Unable to slow herself at the bottom of the stairs she careened into a trio of penguins knocking one over, hit the wall then continued the chase. Well, I never act my age either!

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How Long Will It Take?

Everyone has been asking me how long the thousand mile journey is going to take. My goal is to be finished by the end of November. I'm hoping to have some sort of grand finale finish like a "Race the Sun" walk where we leave at dawn and try to complete a 30 - 40 mile walk before the sun sets. Sounds like fun, right? That was actually my sister's idea so, naturally, she will be joining me. Right, Debbie?????

My cat, Sage, says next time I should try taking a thousand naps for the women of the Congo. Now why didn't I think of that!

In the Sun All Day

I spend most all day outside in the sun. I know those of you who live here in the South Bay are scratching your heads right now, saying, "Huh? What sun?" Well I do spend quite a bit of time in the sun. As it turns out, we are discovering that many of our sunscreens are actually more dangerous to our health than the sun. Please check out Environmental Working Group's 2010 Sunscreen Guide. It is incredibly informative. And if you are now asking yourself why so many known environmental toxins find their way into our cosmetics then watch The Story of Cosmetics; it's a real eye opener! It's time that we start making choices that are healthier for our bodies and the planet.

I only wear sunscreen (a less toxic version) when it's absolutely necessary--- like the hike up to Mt Wilson when it was simply way too hot for sun protection clothing or when I'm in the water. But my preference is a hat and protective clothing. I love O'Neill's RG8 Eco Series, skins and hoodies made from recycled plastic bottles that provide UV protection--- very cool! Coolibar has lightweight drawstring pants that are very comfortable.

Eleven and a half more miles for the Congo sisters today!

For the Love of Dogs

I'm a little sore today but I can still walk. I've decided to enlist the help of my many canine companions (and one crazy cat named Paki) to walk by my side as I am logging in miles. Paddington Bear (pictured here) and his brothers, Cookie Monster and Noodle, have committed to at least 12 miles per week. Jack and Maxi, two irresistible labs, have offered the same, as has Henry, the world's sweetest pit bull. Bubbles tires easily in the summer heat so she's not willing to make a firm commitment. Paki who is a cat will walk whenever and for however long she wants. So for the love of animals and in honor of those who are walking for the women of the Congo please donate today.

Twenty five miles logged after day 3, 975 miles to go!

981 Miles to Go

My sister, Debbie, and I continued the 1000 mile journey today by heading up the Old Mt Wilson Trail in Alta Dena. The trail climbs about 5000 feet over 7.5 miles. It was rather warm out and it's been a while since we've done anything quite so rigorous so we weren't sure we were going to make it to the top. But we did it! Fifteen miles roundtrip! We saw a deer on the way up so I took that as a good omen for the Journey. My feet hurt. I hope I can still walk tomorrow because the journey continues....

First Mile

Today I begin my 1000 mile journey to create awareness for the plight of the women of the Congo. Starting at the Hermosa Beach Pier this morning I will be taking my first steps with my friends at my side. I'm hoping to meet many people and share my adventure with them. Please join me.