It’s 7:30 in the morning on a Saturday, and the hubby says, “Wanna go for a walk?” My first reaction is “Why would I want to do that?”, but he has his silly, hopeful puppy-dog look on his face and before I can think of a good response, “SURE!” comes out of my mouth.

We walk to the end of the block to pick up the Fairfield Loop Trail. If we go left, it’s a very private, hilly, nature hike, but if we go to the right we can veer off the trail and walk the Jefferson County Health Center Trail. We go right.

I have to admit, it was a great idea. The trail is in full sun, so during the summer, I tend to walk in the early morning or late evening. In late fall, it’s a great place to walk in the middle of the day letting the sun warm your bones. You can even walk in the winter if there isn’t much snow or wind.

The sun was shining, and there wasn’t a cloud in the sky. We talked about our work, our dinner plans, going on vacation, and more. It was invigorating and a great way to connect.

I walk this trail several times a week. During the week I meet several ladies on the JCHC Trail and we split into groups – fast walkers and slower walkers. We’re a small group of Weight Watchers trying to get some exercise into our day. I hate exercise, but to be honest, it’s not exercise anymore. It’s friends spending time together. Maybe we talk about Linda’s chickens, or Connie’s big trip to Yellowstone, Dixie’s grandchildren, or my bread-making fiascos. It doesn’t really matter. What matters is the support system. Who needs a therapist when you have friends, sunshine, and some physical activity?

The Jefferson County Health Center Trail is located on Highway 1 on the south end of Fairfield. You can park right by Maasdam Farms. The Fairfield Loop Trail starts here as well and is designated by a large stone marker. The trail is made of compacted gravel. It is .9 miles of level ground and encircles the hospital. If you’re visiting someone at the hospital, rehabbing an injury, just starting a workout regime, or want a quick easy walk this is a wonderful trail. It’s also a great place for Moms with strollers. There are several benches placed around the trail if you need a little rest. If walking the whole circle is too much, you can walk around the pond instead. It’s much shorter, but still a great way to get outdoors. There are also several Fitness Circuits where you can work on your arm strength, do stretches, or work on your balance by walking a balance beam.

Even though I gripe about going, I secretly enjoy my walks – whether it’s with hubs, the ladies, or the pooch. Nothing beats a nice walk in the fresh air. Next time someone asks you, “Wanna go for a walk?”, don’t think about it – just answer “SURE!”