Okay, I really can't believe that it's Friday already! Another one of those weeks that went by too quickly... and now it's time for a fun-filled weekend, which includes Father's Day on Sunday! When I ask my dad what he wants to do or where he wants to go, I already know what his answer will be: go to the beach! And no, my dad doesn't want to go to the beach to "relax" – he wants to go to the beach to WALK!

How great is that?  I love the fact that my dad cares so much about his health that he would rather walk than relax... but then, walking to us is relaxing!  Well, think about that for a minute: try to recall the last time you took a walk along the beach, in a quiet park or a nature center.  You honestly can’t tell me that you didn’t feel more relaxed after your walk was over, can you?  Walking does relax a person and, not only that, it does so much more!  In fact, walking is the perfect gift to give yourself... or someone that you love!

I realize that you can’t physically “give the gift of walking” to another person, but you sure can suggest that they do it WITH YOU!  Believe me, it’s much better than a new tie, t-shirt, cologne, or a gift certificate for a high-fat / high-calorie meal that does NOT help improve a person’s health; actually, it can hurt it instead!  Who wants to give someone that, especially if that “someone” is a person you admire and love... Dad!  Please take a look at all the gifts you can help dad receive if you simply ask him to spend some relaxing time walking with you.

WALKING...

1) Reduces blood pressure

2) Increases the efficiency of the heart and the lungs

3) Reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes

4) Boosts bone strength

5) Improves muscle tone

6) Keeps bones and joints in shape – minimizing the effects of osteoporosis and arthritis

7) Lowers LDL (low-density, “bad” cholesterol)

8) Raises HDL (high-density, “good” cholesterol)

9) Relieves depression, anxiety, and stress

10) Increases your energy level

11) BURNS CALORIES!

I wish every father out there a VERY HAPPY FATHER’S DAY!  Make sure to enjoy every moment spent with each other... by far, there are NO greater gifts than that  ~ Jodi  (I love you, Dad!)