Age Before Beauty?

Okay, let's talk about the elephant in the room--ME.  Living in the village where I grew up means I run into a lot of Shorewoodians who knew me when...and I often hear: "You look great, you haven't aged a bit!" Yes, I do look young for my age, but I wouldn't say I look good! Fat fills wrinkles, it's as simple as that. I wish I could say I have made that intentional choice: I would rather look younger than thinner. Yeah, Right!  Sure, think of what my neck would look like if it wasn't stretched to the limit. Do I really want that loose, sagging under chin skin that so many women of a certain age try to hide with scarves? Uh, yeah! 

So what's holding me back, keeping me in this unintentional fountain of youth? After all, I live in a great walking community of convenience, safety, and camaraderie. (I just don't run into too many neighbors when I rush the dog around the block at 11pm.) I can't think of the last time I walked to Pick 'n Save--too much to carry home, of course, or Walgreens (no excuse, except it's easy to stop there after Pick 'n Save).  I could walk to our great library, of course, but since I got my Kindle I haven't had cause to. I did take a trek that one time to Atwater Park for the fireworks--but that was after circling 5 times looking for a place to park! In my hybrid I often whizz by fast walkers, runners, and bikers along our awesome Lake Drive admiring their discipline, resolve, and great workout clothes. I'd honk in support if it wouldn't scare them.

And so I sit, behind the computer. And so I hide, behind the pounds that I don't want or need, no matter how young they make me look. I've conquered this issue a few times, but obviously not permanently. Time to get out there, to age gracefully and willingly, and get moving. Anyone want to go for a walk? I can't wait for my next SHS reunion where I hope to hear those glorious words: "MP, you look old!"