Walking in the Mall

I have enjoyed mostly good health all my life and moderate exercise has always been inviting to me. Since moving into our home in 1960 I have jogged on the streets, attended gymnastic classes, and done considerable yard work, including raising a small garden. Until a few years ago I was able to use a rowing ergometer inside the house for about 30 minutes each day. Also Virginia has always been a great cook, we have square danced for 25 years, and have  carefully watched our calorie intake as well as providing mouth-watering dishes for 62 years.

Arthritis is common in our family and I am no exception. As I got older, my left hip had started to get more of my attention after each bit of physical movement. When the pain became unbearable the inevitable hip-replacement took place. A young doctor named J. E. Broyles did a masterful job of this and after several months of patience and physical therapy, Virginia and I started walking early each morning inside the Mall of Louisiana near our home.

We have now been doing this daily for about 18 months for periods of 30 minutes each time. We go early in the morning before the customers arrive and the entire atmosphere is very enjoyable - with no cars, no barking dogs, and no bad weather to contend with. Even soothing background music is provided and there are many interesting sights to be seen also.

I can almost smell those fresh baked cookies and the frying bacon from the food court now.