As I mentioned in my previous
blog, I drove down to Myrtle Beach
to visit my parents for the holiday weekend. Though it was a long drive from
DC, everything went well and the trip was worth it. I enjoyed spending time
with my parents and while the weekend weather was a bit cool, we were still
able to spend time outdoors and get lots of sun.
This was my first visit to my
“snowbird” parents and I noticed how healthy living has become a greater focus
in their lives. About 2 years ago, my father was diagnosed with Type II
diabetes and it required them to make changes to their lifestyle. They keep
active by taking walks on the beach most mornings and alternate between
different walking routes to stay motivated. They also golf two to three times a
week and make use of the gym equipment where they stay when the weather is bad.
Additionally, they eat at home most days and when eating at restaurants, try to
choose the healthier options. Sometimes, they even splurge and get dessert.
I even found myself falling
into their healthy routine while I was visiting. I joined them for walks on the
beach and used the gym at their condo. We also took a day-trip to Charleston and took a walking
tour of the historic district, which was really enjoyable.
On the drive back, I thought
about how far my parents had come. When presented with the need to be more
active and eat healthier because of my dad’s diagnosis, they made the necessary
changes in their daily life. And what I found to be really important was that
they made being healthy something that can be fun rather a burden. I think it's why they've been so successful.
Below is a photo from my
trip.
Justin – A Lumen
