Happy Mother’s Day to all of the moms out there! The month of May has arrived and that means a frenzy of activity for families who are celebrating Mother’s day today and graduations now or in the weeks ahead. I am truly blessed to have my mother-in-law, daughter, and granddaughters close by. It is a joy to spend time together at a moment’s notice. Hopefully your weekend plans include some good family time with plenty of hugs.
300+ people in Barton County are celebrating the conclusion of the eight week long Walk Kansas program. Most of the teams have met or surpassed their goal to exercise at least 30 minutes five times a week and I am hoping with the more spring like weather it won’t be hard to keep the habit going. A wrap up celebration is set for Thursday, May 16th, at 5:15 p.m. at the southeast shelter of Vet’s park. We will have healthy refreshments and door prizes.
And finally, May 13-17 is designated as “Bicycle to Work Week.” Since I am passionate about cycling whenever I have the chance I consider this week a celebration. After two long months of having the bike inside on a trainer because of weekly bouts of winter weather, we are finally back outside. Although it is estimated that less than 1 percent of adult Americans commute to work by bicycle, roughly 41 percent of work commutes are shorter than 5 miles. In my case, my husband John and I log seven miles a day which includes two round trips to our respective offices. Unless it is below 20 degrees or icy underfoot, you are likely to see us in our hi-vis green jackets pedaling along on our tandem bike.
Bicycle commuting is a great way to squeeze regular exercise into a busy schedule. Commuting time can be used to stay in shape instead of sitting frustrated in traffic. Statistics also show that bicycle commuters are happier and more productive at work. As more cyclists take to the streets as summer approaches, make sure you take time to review bicycle safety rules with young riders.
So whatever you are celebrating this May, have a wonderful time!
Donna Krug is the Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Barton County. You may reach her at (620)793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu