30 Paintings in 30 Days - Day 27

"Abstract Sunset" and "Abstract Sunset 2" - ink and acrylic on aquabord, each 6" x 6"

Our evening walks have been a constant source of wonder the past couple of weeks.  It must be the effect of the rainy season, daily thunderstorms and rapidly changing weather patterns, but the sunsets have been glorious.  More than once, I have tripped over something because I am so busy gawking at the sky, the clouds, the sun, the insanely unbelievable colors and how rapidly it changes from one minute to the next.  There is nothing so wonderful as breathtaking sunsets to get me excited about going outside in the humidity and insects to work up a sweat.

And working up a sweat is a particular challenge when going through physical therapy and rehabilitation after an accident.  As much as I would like to hop on my (mangled) bike or take a yoga class, parts of my body still aren't ready to participate.  Over the last two decades, I've gone from runner to personal trainer to P90X warrior to yoga enthusiast to cyclist to...walker.  And there is a temptation to feel badly about that.  What do you mean, I shouldn't carry a purse larger than an envelope?  And how is it fair that I can't do a push-up without my right arm collapsing underneath me?  

But then there are the brilliant sunsets of the evening walk, the unhurried conversations with my hubby and walking partner, the ocean breeze which miraculously appears after 7 pm and the joyous feeling of my body working, supporting me and moving me around the neighborhood day after day.  I've decided to be the most dedicated walker I can be - seriously grateful that I am walking at all, and knowing my body is getting stronger every day.

Besides, if the universe is going to keep giving me eye candy to entice me outside, well, who am I to say no?