Baby Boomer Power

I just got word that my brother and sister-in-law completed the Portland Bridge Pedal yesterday. Don't they look great? Not sure if this picture was made before or after the 15 miles, but as active as they are, they could easily look this good after even more than 15 miles.


This got me to thinking about how our generation - the "Baby Boomers" - are living into our 6th decade. You may recall my personal goal of completing a marathon for my 60th birthday. Why? Because I could!


And here's my friend, Linda, who is well into her 6th decade, and has just decided to take up kayaking. I firmly believe that our willingness to try new things, go where we haven't gone before, is what keeps us young at any age. Congratulations, Linda!


One of the reasons I love being in Montana so much is that no one worries too much about age or gender when it comes to physical activity. And we really don't worry too much about how we look doing it!


One of my two favorite role models here in Big Sky is Toini. Toini grew up in Norway walking 6 miles each way to school everyday and hiking in the mountains. Into her 7th decade, she can still hike all day over challenging trails, does her own gardening and landscaping (including rock gardening) and can absolutely wear out anyone trying to keep up with her on snowshoes.


Then there's Marty Pavelich. Marty, now into his 8th decade, played defensive wing for the Detroit Redwings during the 1950s. He spends most of the summers and winters here in MT and is one of the best skiers on the mountain. Still the consummate athlete, he works out most everyday, including beginning each morning with 300 sit-ups.


Are we as Baby Boomers just living out our rebellious habits formed in the 1960s? Is it just that we don't want to admit our age? Is it just simply that medical research and education and awareness of physical activity as an important component of well being has finally gotten through to us?


For me . . . I am just so proud to be surrounded by family and friends who remind me every day that life is a precious gift worth grabbing on to. Let's all enjoy the ride!