I spent most of the day on the Tanglefoot Trail, the new rails-to-trails project that runs 40 miles one way, from Houston to New Albany. It was perfect. The weather was sunny and cool, the sky cloudless, and the fields and woods blooming a spring spectrum of green. Its a smooth, paved trail that wanders along through pastureland and wooded hills under a canopy of dappled shade. It is a delight to ride--no traffic, no noise, and best of all, it passes through several small communities along the way. I rode south from Pontotoc to Houlka, about 15 miles one-way. I chose this route the way I choose all bike routes--based on snacks. Some people ride for fitness, some for speed. I ride for snacks, and I consider a ride a success only if I have at least one great snack, preferably at an old country store. Intellectually, I know it isnt true, but when I ride, I feel like the calories dont count and all the rules of basic nutrition are on hold. I had a ham and cheese sandwich before I got on the trail. I had chicken strips and a honey biscuit with a Sprite at Davids One Stop in Houlka. I had a Snapple and chocolate cupcakes at Algoma on the way home. Its not what Lance Armstrong would have eaten, but hey, its not like Lance made the greatest choices either. I figure if I make that same ride another four times this week, Ill have burned off the calories I packed in today. Of course, Ill need some snacks. When were active and engaged by life, especially when we exert ourselves physically, we take heightened pleasure in even the simplest things, like a snack. On the other hand, when were idle and bored, and physically inert, snacking doesnt help. In fact, it usually makes us feel worse. This is a great time of year to get out and get active. Its an important part of spiritual health. Youll feel more alive and grateful, and most of the good stuff in life comes to us when were pushing ourselves a little. The life Jesus invites us into isnt just about spirit. Its about the body and the world, too.
Posted on: Thu, 10 Apr 2014 03:52:15 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015