I'm 71 on 5 July -- you? I missed being born on the 4th by minutes, although my mother always disagreed with the doctor who delivered me as to the time. A major Midwestern summer electrical storm ongoing at the time, knocking out all the electricity so I was born by feel, flashlight, & candlelight in the doctor's office, the only hospital in that small town having burnt down a year or so earlier.

I used to walk a lot too before two surgeries on my face for basal cell skin cancer. I'm finally getting used to the idea I'll always be a prey to this problem, so now do a suitable coverup with sunscreen & hats. However, our desert summer started abruptly the day I returned to Atkins, going from the low 90s to 100-104 overnight, cooling off to about 80 by 3 a.m. So I'm not yet back to my walking daily. I too used to do 2-3 miles daily. As soon as I'm adjusted weatherwise & begin again to arise predawn, I hope to get back to walking in the cool early morning hours before the sun wakes up.

I started walking years ago as a way to reduce stress. I have normal BP, for example, until I walk into my local medical center or doctor's office. I'm not even aware of feeling stress most of the time. But I always feel better after I walk, even if it's just a short walk of a few blocks.

I checked out your blog & website of your family's musical career. I too am a writer. Years ago I used to listen to gospel music but stopped when so much of gospel music turned to shouting & dancing. The old-time family gospel singers were my favorites singing of course the old-time gospel classics. I only wish your family's gospel music was available on CDs for purchase -- I'm sure I'm not the only one interested. Meanwhile, I'll plug in & listen at the website. If anyone's interested in any of this, see bluesinger's User CP.