I took a walk-jog this morning, something I’ve been doing pretty regularly since early June. Some days are better than others, and today started out sluggish. But as I turned the corner of my street, my neighbor drove by, rolled down his window, and gave me a friendly wave.

Almost like getting a shot of adrenaline, my energy spiked. I smiled and picked up the pace. Amazing what a little acknowledgment can do for the spirit. Motivation feeds on encouragement.

Jogging isn’t easy for me—after two knee replacements, it probably looks clumsy at this point. But it feels great. Hitting the pavement is pure joy.

The last time I entered a road race, our nation was celebrating its 200th birthday—and I was celebrating my 27th. Before the new knees, even walking had become a challenge.

This morning’s workout was in preparation for the Thanksgiving Gobble Wobble, a local 5K I’ll be running with my Gen Z daughter, Ali.

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