It was every kid’s nightmare … clothes for Christmas! Toys were in great demand during those early days of life and nothing else seemed to matter. But the older you get, the more you will just settle for good health and the chance to make it to another Christmas. What a difference that hourglass of time can make!
When you were 3 years old, you just wanted a Slinky from Santa. They looked so nifty on the TV commercials, and you had a set of stairs to use in exploring all their tricks. Fast forward a few decades and you’d be happy if St. Nick would leave you height-weight appropriate and without diabetes. Better hope that stocking is stuffed with some new walking or running shoes. You’ve got some weight to shed.
Your first year in kindergarten and you were on top of the world with your new G.I. Joe action figure from Uncle Len. Every tough tyke in your afternoon class wanted that Army hero, and you were lucky enough to get him. But these days your wish list for the big jolly guy includes samples of Viagra for your erectile dysfunction. That list also should include a book on healthy eating. Knowing how to eat correctly should help you salute without all those blue pills!
Hungry Hungry Hippos, the game we all clamored for in our cherubic childhood days, could be a theme song for today’s society, as well. Santa certainly had you on the nice list if you received one of these games years ago. Two score and seven years later and you would gladly take a clean bill of health instead of that boisterous game with the monster mammals. Write to the North Pole with your request for recommended cancer screenings and regular doctor checkups. Kris Kringle is quite munificent this way!
By the fifth grade, you were ready for the sophistication of technology. You were master of the video games and you still loved your Atari system more than girls or boys in those days. Today, though, you would be more than happy to trade those vintage cartridges for the end of any lower back pain. Santa can refer you to a good doctor and a fitness trainer who can give you a list of back-strengthening exercises. Walking without pain doesn’t need to involve painkillers for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The advent of junior high school meant a 10-speed bicycle from that guy formerly known as Santa. You were too cool to be seen in the car with your parents and too young to take your driving test. A bike gave you the freedom to get around town on your own. A double chin, an expanded waistline, and some crow’s feet into the future and here you are wishing away your curses of age. A new bike would still be a great gift under the tree this year. Pedal your way to the fountain of youth!
This can be a magical time of the year when all your wellness dreams can come true … if you just believe! Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus, and he wants more than anything to see you happy and healthy!
This health and fitness article is brought to you by that guy putting up his tree for all to see. That guy of glee is Ron Blake and he can be CC’d on all emails to the Big Guy at rblake5551@hotmail.com.
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