Cali Trip Day 5- Hike in the woods, Avenue of the Giants, Ferndale and Arcata

After waking up in the beautiful treehouse, we decided to explore the area before we took off again. Zoe was the one communicating with the owners of this Airbnb and confirmed there were hiking trails on the property.

The sun was doing its best to shine through which we took as an excellent sign after our rainy chilled day yesterday.

It was nice to explore not knowing what views we would discover.

The sun peaking through the trees as if to tell us She knows we are there.

When there was a clearing we soon discovered we were on top of a mountain.

We had no idea since most of the drive was in the dark rain. It was amazing!

We saw intricate cobwebs throughout the hike. They are tough to capture but this one was perfect.

We also discovered red mushrooms and banana slugs.

Wasn’t too keen on the mountain lion warning sign, but I guess always good to be aware.

We had a long drive ahead with the goal of reaching our final destination of Arcata today. As we drove out of the farmer’s drive, we were chased by some dogs and squawked at loudly by the geese, but the cows in the road were the cutest.

We wondered if they would move when we got closer.

I dropped a pin to remember our location. I was low on gas and headed to Bodega Bay to fuel up. We didn’t spend much time there, but it was an adorable little town. Gas pricing was not so adorable there 🙂

We were on country roads for quite some time. Passed a ton of wineries.

Zoe took the wheel while I again oohed and awed out the windows at the scenery.

We started to hit the tall tree lined areas and felt covered in peace.

I kept leaning to take photos out the front windshield. It just didn’t seem to capture it.

I read that the drive up was worth it even if you didn’t stay to hike. I totally get that now. But couldn’t wait to get out and immerse myself in it.

Bucket list. Not that I actually have one, but this was for sure something I have always wanted to experience and so glad that I made it here.

So tall and majestic with their wisdom of what they have endured and witnessed.

We finally found a slight curbside place to pull over and we went straight into touch these trees! The smell of the forest is so fresh. Check out Zozo vs the giant.

This all was just along the drive called “The Avenue of the Giants”.

I was inside the tree taking a photo out.

Zoe and I went our separate ways at times.

Perspective of who we are in this world. These trees are said to be thousands of years old. We are lucky to live to 80.

I loved watching Zoe look up and feel small.

Leaves on the forest floor were equally beautiful. I still have my same hiking boots from my first road trip two years back.

My perfect capture of the energy and moment felt.

We hiked a trail that had a lot of fallen trees which was interesting to see their girth and length.

I ordered a free map prior to our trip of this area and kept losing it along the way. I finally smartened up and took a photo so I could see it later to determine our next move.

We exited the Avenue of the Giants and headed to a historic town called Ferndale.

The main street took pride in its fun decor.

I walked into a small shop and instantly fell in love with these shoes and had to get them. I almost gave up until Zoe found this pair in my size in the display window.

Adorable shopping here. Highly recommend a stop if ever in this area.

A historic inn. Every small town needs one.

A beautiful bed and breakfast in a restored Victorian home.

We still had another hour to drive to reach Arcata. Immediately upon arrival at our Arcata Airbnb we googled and found a cidery just a couple blocks away. Sounded like a perfect end to our non stop day.

Great little set up which sells pies during the day.

We both did tasters and then went back for more.

Baby A. How lucky am I to have her in Cali to give me the excuse to road trip there. I can’t believe I haven’t explored this coast sooner in life, but so glad she is.

Clifton Gorge-John L. Rich and North Rim Trail Loop. Clifton, Ohio

I decided to go back and revisit part of the trail that Debbie and I drudged our way through at the end of 6 miles. I knew it was a place I wanted more time to absorb, so I convinced Zoe to go up with me one weekend before she headed back to LA.

We first stopped for breakfast at the Historic Clifton Mill restaurant. We arrived just in time before the line started forming. Then we headed to the trailhead while the humidity was still behaving.

Felt totally different entering fully energized and hydrated.

I stopped to admire this beautiful tree who I don’t recall noticing before. Love how trees have character. I am making plans to go to the see the Redwoods this fall with Zoe which I am sure will put this beauty to shame. I am certain I will be forever changed after the Redwoods forest bath. But always good to give admiration to the trees around us.

Noticed these adorable red fungi in a tree. Just doing their part to add a little spunk to the green landscape.

Looking down at the calm area of the gorge, where the river has gone through its tumultuous part of and ended up at peace. A great reminder of life. Watching rivers has so much wisdom to share.

Loving the mossy ferns just dripping off the rock’s edge.

Zoe ran ahead and I made her pose to capture the true perspective of the limestone rock wall surrounding us.

Now I remember capturing this view before and was again stopped by its complex structure.

There is a bit of history about this rock stating it is billions of years old.

The manner in which the sun was coming in made the river glow in its light.

Zoe and I found a place where there was a trail down to the river’s edge and we hiked down to feel the coldness of the water.

When we got to this point we went up on the bridge for a bit and then went back the way we came in. There were more people on the trail as the morning progressed. I like hiking early in solitude. There are benefits to getting your butt out of bed early.

It was a great couple hour hike. Perfect for me. A great way to start off our Saturday.

Fast forward a week later Kang Kang and I planned to meet up at a location in between Columbus and Cincinnati to do a hike. As much as I prefer not to hike the same trail twice, (now three times) this one was worth showing her. I thought the landscape was a great option in Ohio, and the drive split perfectly each way.

We got started at the trailhead at 9 am with plans to grab lunch in Yellow Springs afterwards.

Check out how the white barked tree is literally coming out from the rock and curving up to the sky.

Zoe and I saw this same blue heron when we hiked but now he was on our side of the river. Kang Kang was able to photograph him with a closer view and her better Iphone camera.

She looked like she was riding an imaginary dragon on this tree.

It was great catching up again with her. It’d been too long and we had much needed depth in our heartfelt conversations as we hiked along the trail. Nature has an awesome way of keeping you honest.

Only 15 minutes away was Yellow Springs. The wait for the cafe was an hour. So we walked the small town and shopped a bit taking in the art and unique glass and pottery stores. I couldn’t resist another patchwork reversible wrap skirt. My pocket book needs to stay out of this town 🙂

Capturing the sidewalks of this place. It was quite crowded which I was happy to see. People out enjoying its unique open minded, creative environment in the middle of the countryside. A hidden gem.

I found the below quote and couldn’t resist sharing. It spoke to me.

Nine Penny Branch Nature Preserve, Indiana

I talked Sedona into coming down to meet me for a hike near Louisville. It’s been awhile since we’ve been out together and we are having some fantastic, surprisingly low- humidity summer days.

Unfortunately, I am not good at finding wooded trails for hiking around Louisville. Most options are at least an hour away, but we discovered this cute reserve within a 30 minute drive.

We drove down industrial, then local roads and ended up across from this gorgeous farmland landscape. There was a small parking lot near the trailhead.

As usual, I didn’t do much research so I didn’t understand this little wall here, but later discovered it is part of a historic stage coach trail. While in the woods we saw more stone wall remnants which marked the route through this area along the stream.

Immediately walking inside the temperature dropped as we were covered in green.

Cute little trail. I was giddy walking with Sedona in the woods again. Walking in the woods is such an excellent way to naturally catch up on each other’s lives. I wish I did more hiking with my daughters when they were younger.

Looking up and always in awe of nature’s patterns.

Rock sitting area along the edge. Sedona warned me that if we go down, we have to come back up. It was quite a drop.

Sedona being a sport and posing on the bridge as we crossed a stream.

A little info where we learned about the history of the area.

Then we discovered some water falls. Was such a great area to climb around.

Sedona snapping a photo of the falls from a different view.

Looking down the stream. There was only one other family there playing in the water and catching toads.

Was a wonderful escape from sitting at my computer all week.

It took us a bit to find the remainder of the trail which was on the opposite side of the stream. It was a mile loop and not too much to see.

I would definitely recommend this trail to anyone who needed a short couple mile hike in solitude.

I accidently hit the “non-toll” route and we crossed back over The Ohio River utilizing this cool yellow bridge just as it started to rain.

We felt we deserved a beverage so we detoured to a place called Atrium. My beer was named “cake”. As you can imagine it was delicious!

Glen Helen, Little Miami & Clifton Gorge Trails-Yellow Springs, Ohio

I don’t even know where to begin to explain this journey. It was a doozey.

Debbie and I try to hike together a couple times a year and this summer with our schedules, we were struggling to find a date on our calendars that would work. We decided on a Friday, which was perfectly timed with my intense need to have a day off from my remote full- time gig.

We tossed around a few trail ideas located in between her house and mine and decide to meet up in Yellow Springs, Ohio. This trail was 11 miles and I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect from it.

Debbie told her friend about this trail and her friend was pessimistic about us accomplishing it. That motivated her even more. I forgot how competitive Debbie is.

We met at 10:00 am and it was an overcast cool morning. We debated about whether we needed water and stupidly decided not to bring any along. (lesson #1- always bring water on a hike longer than a couple miles!)

Debbie had a nutritious chocolate donut and Diet Coke on her drive in while I ate the equally smart breakfast choice of leftover BBQ pizza from the night before. Neither of us were properly prepared physically, mentally or emotionally for the challenges that lay ahead.

We started off at the welcome center, grabbing a map and talking to the very enthusiastic workers who told us we could see an authentic beaver dam that was not on the map. We felt ‘clued in’ and headed that way immediately.

Debbie wasn’t impressed. While I explained how a tiny animal dragged each stick through the water to create this. She snapped a photo to entertain me.

We continued along the trail by the water. It was so cute seeing the ducklings following their mama in the pond. Reminded me of a tarot card reader who told me “my ducks were in a row”.

We followed this solo hiker for a bit and enjoyed the ever changing scenery we encountered.

The walkways were clear on this overcast weekday with very few hikers seen.

We found our first of many “waterfalls” and I made Debbie pose.

The next waterfall was the actual Yellow Springs which the city is named after. I wanted to take a drink but Debbie warned me of dysentery. Made me wonder how in the heck settlers, back in the day, survived. My friend Kevin later told me that if he is ever going on a long hike he always take a water filter in case he needs it. Smart man. Debbie and I didn’t even pack water. Guess which one of us has a Ph.D.

The landscape, after the initial sight seeing loop, changed to tall tree lined trails.

Then somehow we ended up at another waterfall. Debbie made me take out the map which had numbered stopping points and asked me which number we were on. It became a running joke as we walked- trying to figure out which # we were at.

Selfie by the water. We actually had to wait our turn to get into this spot. There were quite a few hikers down in this area.

Looking down at the tiny waterfall as we crossed over top.

There were many run off streams along the way.

We talked to a couple with walking sticks who wanted to share their knowledge of the area and how three nature preserves came together in this location. Debbie and I were set to see them all. As we wandered down narrower trails, I took a glance at the map only to find ourselves off the beaten path in the pine tree forest area.

Always taking a detour. At this point still optimistic and feeling good about taking the route through the pines.

Debbie captured me breathing in this tree.

Felt like we were on an adventure. Little did we know, this one was like no other we had been on before.

We crossed an open field which was odd. We walked away from it several times thinking it had to be the wrong way. But the map said to continue forward. So we did.

Again the landscape changed and felt unchartered.

Debbie started pointing out the wildflowers as most of our landscape was strickly green.

I snapped a few photos to witness them in hopes they felt my admiration.

We thought we had to be in the wrong place as this was marked as a monument. Not a number on our map but some sort of landmark nonetheless. Quite overgrown.

We made our way through the weeds on a small single line trail hoping we were still headed in the right direction. At this point we had walked about 2 hours and were getting a little tired. Didn’t want to take too many steps off our planned pathway destination.

We saw this sign and were confirmed we were headed in the right direction. Entering park #2.

We came across a river and followed along for a bit. Loved how the roots were natural steps. There’s no shuffling your feet on this walk. Legs were getting a full work out.

I learned recently, through the forever unreliable news source of Instagram, that the root system of trees is actually not very deep but generally more wide and long and this is how trees such as these, can hang onto the edge like they do sometimes.

Its amazing the natural shapes and textures you get on a hike in the woods.

We were walking along the shore, seeing a lot of snake holes. Wasn’t sure if it was the right path, and after about 5 minutes this trail dead ended so we turned around.

Had beautiful viewpoints which we still appreciated. As we walked along the river we spotted a couple of folks in hammocks just hanging out reading a book and relaxing on this cool Friday. Goals.

By now I am dying of thirst, parched! Debbie was getting a little shaky and joked about possibly passing out. ( Lesson #2 always pack a snack! ) I checked our location and we were in between the city of Yellow Springs and Clifton. We decided to keep heading to Clifton where there was a small restaurant which was a must at this point.

Check out this tree dangling gracefully over the edge.

We kept walking but our spirits were dwindling. We had to get to the restaurant before they closed at 3pm.

Then we entered our 3rd Reserve. The battery on my phone was dying. It wasn’t looking hopeful for us as Debbie’s phone couldn’t pull up any signals. (I have AT&T and she has Verizon- just sayin)

I posed inside this rock cave just to stop walking for a second 🙂

In the Clifton Gorge area the river was roaring!

It was much busier than the other parts of the journey.

I kept saying I wish I wasn’t dying of thirst and on a mission to reach a said destination by a certain time so I could actually enjoy this amazing view.

Many more large limestone rock formations and waterfalls. But not a # on the map. We were officially off the map.

Well- kept walkways. A lot of tourists, elderly and families.

Debbie and I always have a joke when we see red berries on walks. Christmas in June.

I want to go back and just walk this part of the trail again when my energy is renewed.

It’s a natural beauty in Ohio. Can’t believe I’d never been here before.

You can imagine the sound of its continual rush downstream.

I wasn’t honestly absorbing the joy I usually feel because of our desperation. The good news is we surfaced to the street level in the town of Clifton at 2:15 ish and made it to the restaurant. I literally downed 2 glasses of lemon-aide (the server probably thought I was on drugs) and two glasses of water. My phone was at 10% and I knew we weren’t going to be able to make it back without a map. (Lesson#3- always bring a charger.)

I asked the server if they happened to have an IPhone charger and she was reluctant but said there was one in the office. She took my phone back to charge for me. Thank God for small favors and kind people.

At this point we had been hiking for 4 hours and about 6 miles. I realized I would never be able to do the 9 mile hike a day on The Camino de Santiago pilgrimage trail I was invited to. Good thing I passed that opportunity up. May have done more harm than good.

Debbie tried to see if there was a shorter way back. All routes were going to take 2 -3 hours walking and there were no back roads- just highway country roads without sidewalks. So we opted to return through the woods with hopes of never getting off route.

We walked along the opposite side of the river for a different view.

There were a lot more rocks to climb and explore should there had been time or energy. Debbie actually did climb up one as I waited behind. At one point she asked if she was going to have to carry me out. I laughed at the thought of it. She agreed it would be more like dragging me out. I mean I have put on the lbs.

It was pretty and the weather honestly could not have been easier on us.

We kept seeing small trickles of water over rocks and asked if there was a number on the map for this waterfall.

We crossed back over the river and were exiting the Clifton Gorge area. This is where we got lost before and were determined to make it out this time.

I took a snap shot of where were were on the map since my battery was again getting low. There were a lot more turns ahead. I was starting to get anxious.

Debbie was ahead of me most of the way back. I was slowing down.

Another good sign. We made it to the last reserve. We still debated about whether or not we would make it out before the sun set.

There was that darn field again. We crossed it only to realize we needed to turn left instead this time. Grrrrrrrr.

You can imagine what Debbie said when we entered this area 🙂 But we kept walking. (Lesson #5 always wear long pants just in case you encounter a trail like this.)

Another baby waterfall. Oh how we tried hard to uplift our spirits and find something to laugh at along the way.

At one point on this trail it led us to a guardrail and we literally had to climb over it, cross the stream via the road and then jump the guardrail on the other side to then get back onto the trail. When you are tired, trying to cross a metal edge without injury at our height was a hoot. I literally got my hips stuck in between two posts and couldn’t stop laughing.

The last few hours we barely spoke. I think we both were just seriously concentrating on our steps and making it out. We got passed by an energetic young couple, we both wondered where the heck they came from. They left us in the dust which was good because I was growing weary of hearing about their youthful dreams and issues.

When we passed this rock I heard voices above. I checked my map one more time and we needed to go back through.

We did it!!! I made her take another selfie.

Debbie recorded the hike and sent me this snap. We ended up doing 13 miles! I felt a sense of accomplishment mixed with stupidity. When I got into my car, my phone battery was literally at 1%. I’m not sure if it had died when we would have figured out where to exit. But it didn’t die. And we did get out.

Twin Sister Falls- Brecksville, Ohio

Seeing Chagrin Falls inspired me to find a hiking trail before I left the Cleveland area. I googled other waterfalls that would be along my drive home and when I saw the name Twin Sister Falls, I knew this was the hike for me.

I googled mapped my way there since AllTrails didn’t have this listed. (I now know why) The Aussie accented directions took me to a house near a farm. I zoomed into the map and could see the falls was located close by but was I supposed to walk through someone’s property? I drove up and down that street trying to find an access point with zero luck. I gave up.

Going back to the trust of AllTrails app I found a trail very close by and decided to hike it instead. It was a fairly busy trail for bikes and birdwatchers. It was fun being out there early in the morning. When I saw the group of birdwatchers, I figured that would be me in the future. Less hiking, more watching.

Arriving the trailhead was right next to an old train station. George and I had heard about the train rides through the Cuyahoga National Park when we visited last year.

It now housed a sparkling clean bathroom which was much appreciated.

View of the bridge that I drove over to get me here.

This was a happy family trail. Perfect for a Sunday morning.

Wonderful wildflowers added some color to the green.

A beautiful mallard duck just chilling alone.

Cute lily pads with frogs jumping off as you walked by.

Looking up. Appreciating the trees that offer us shade along the way.

A sea of green ferns which give off magnificent coolness.

I veered off the paved path and took a narrower shaded route after I turned around. I stopped to google map to see my location and realized I was close to the waterfall.

Was I up for an adventure alone? I was still low energy and felt somewhat incapable of handling it.

I kept looking for inspiration. This tree captured my attention.

On the maps, if I walked directly this way, I would reach the falls. I hesitated because not a soul was going this way. Definitely a path less taken.

Then I asked myself, if I were in Phuket, would I go? The answer was always “yes”. Why there did I feel fearless and empowered? Yet in my own country, I worry about being found in the woods’. I think being naive to Thailand helped me to adventure more. Like I didn’t know any better. I never heard of murders or crime. It felt so safe. Honestly probably wasn’t but I loved that feeling- so I embraced it and hiked on.

Surrounded by tall trees and hills. I kept close to the water.

Was loving this hike alone. I jumped, ducked, climbed and walked through the water to keep going.

It was raw. I did find one footprint in the mud which was encouraging.

It was fun hearing the toads hop into the water all along the way.

I stopped to wonder who would’ve done this with me without constantly doubting the direction. I concluded my daughters and Debbie. Anyone else would question my judgement.

I arrived to a lackluster waterfall but looking up had a very cool view. Like I was in a bowl.

I attempted a panoramic view shot from my feet up to the curved falls. Not a success.

I snapped this google shot showing where I left the path and ventured through the woods to reach my original sought out destination. Funny how it all ended up working out.

I took this photo because I saw the heart shaped stone and thought of my friend Anne who pointed out hearts in nature.

Nature is so fascinating. I know I could never survive long in it, but I truly feel connected when I’m surround by it.

Walking back to the car I took one last look at the overpass. So happy I found this adventure.

Day 3- San Diego, California- Torrey Pines State Reserve

After an hour in the gardens, I felt like I had more in me. More energy to spend, considering my antibiotics were now behind me. I had to get some strength back.

When I was buying a comforter for Zoe in LA at West Elm, the woman who helped me was the sweetest. She made me feel like a rockstar. It was a tad odd but interesting to be lifted up in such a manner by a stranger. She complimented my eyes, told me I was amazing, she seemed obsessed and honestly I wasn’t even a big purchaser so I couldn’t quite figure it out- except maybe my light was shining that day 🙂

She listed out places to visit since I mentioned I was going to San Diego. One of them was Torrey Pines. I google mapped it and it was on my way back to the Airbnb so I decided to check it out.

I honestly thought I could just drive up but my maps kept turning me around. I almost gave up, but instead, parked along the beachfront like everyone else and decided to walk up.

I walked past the rocky beach. It was chilly but there were a few surfers and families picking up shells to collect.

I loved the heart shaped rocks perfectly balanced. Felt symbolic on how fragile love, life and balancing it all can be.

Something about the water here. Not necessarily the best looking beaches, but the landscape is perfect.

Have to be honest, I wasn’t sure I was going to make it up the hill. I saw older people doing it and kept encouraging myself, if they can do it, you can do it. But at one point, I was feeling quite winded and out of shape. Wishing I would’ve maybe eaten breakfast or packed some water. But when I reached the top, the views were incredible.

The top of the mountain had several trail options to follow.

I picked a short loop and understood how you could spend an entire day here given the right walking shoes.

Can you see the small people off in the distance on top of that rock? I never made it there.

I was happy I made it this far and glad I was able to see another part of what San Diego offered.

Loved seeing the pioneering women making a difference by preserving land for all of us to still enjoy today.

I decided this high point overlook was going to be my last climb. My legs were ready to head downhill at this point. I endured the many steps and even passed a toddler along the way.

I walked all the way up only to see the marshland below. Not quite a write home about view.

Later when speaking to Don about my hike, he said I never made it to the best part where you can walk down the mountain and then return by way of the beach. Definitely wished he was with me, I missed my tour guide.

Finally making my way back down to my parking spot as others were making their way up.

From this view you can see the cars parked along the beach. I walked about a mile up. Appreciating the wildflowers on the way down, but nothing was going to be as impressive as the magic of the gardens I viewed earlier.

I glanced down the beach one last time, then decided it was time for me to grab something to eat.

I found my way back to La Jolla village and found a Mexican restaurant with quite a crowd out front. A benefit of eating solo, you can always belly up to the bar.

I discovered Puesto brewed their own beers, so I tasted them all. Ordered a few overpriced tiny tacos, 9$ each, but damn delicious!

As I left I took a snapshot of the murals inside just to remember the place. I found the style of the birds adorable. As I get older, I find myself more and more aware and interested in birds. Its funny, I’m becoming my Maida.

Maybe this is what it is. Generally with all nature. Me getting back to the roots that inspire, teach and help me appreciate.

Day 4- Carlsbad, New Mexico: Carlsbad Caverns and White Sands National Park

The night in New Mexico was interrupted by gale force winds. I felt like the house was going to blow away like in The Wizard of Oz. I honestly have never heard anything like it before. Neither of us slept well but had another 8 hour drive ahead of us when we woke the next day and two pit stops planned.

Zoe booked us a self guided tour at the Carlsbad Cavern National Park for 9:30 am. So we hit the road by 8:30 and let our day begin!

I googled best breakfast and found the Blue House Cafe located a couple blocks from where we were.

Inside was like Cheers, everyone knew everyone. It was quite crowded and all seats were filled. We were lucky to grab a small two seater by the counter. Their espresso was amazing.

It was a quaint joint and a gentleman with a 1 foot long handlebar mustache sat behind us. Another local went to chat with him discussing this ridiculous “green energy and Biden this and Biden that. I stiffened up and got the hell out of there. I could tell that the mustache man didn’t necessary agree since his replies were very limited and not encouraging but also not argumentative. I suspected they knew Zoe and I were not from there.

I took the day off work to try to enjoy the National Parks. We drove about 35 minutes away and then started seeing this landscape out Crystal’s window! I mean seriously?! Just amazing this land.

We passed a semi truck, overturned by the winds, luckily on the other side of the highway. Hoping it would be cleared by the time we came back. Roads out here are different and as Virlane advised me- stick to the highways.

As we drove into the park entrance I was literally oohing and aweing at nature. I swear being out west just reminds me of how small and insignificant we are.

Loved the solar power at the entrance to the caverns.
We struggled walking due to the winds. Thankfully most was underground.

We walked to the outdoor entrance to the cave and discovered another outdoor amphitheater. I guess they have some sort of bat viewing at night. See Zozo in the corner. She is such a great sport about modeling for me.

It was very cool and such a perfect time to come out in February where we lucked out with the blue sky days and very few humans.

Truth be told, we took the elevator down to the cave level to save 1/2 hour in time since we knew we still had a 3 hour drive to White Sands planned. I wondered if the winds would be kicking up there too. Would make for a miserable visit.

This is the largest caverns in the USA. It was about a mile to walk through the main area. It took quite some time and every turn was fascinating.

Couldn’t believe how well my photos turned out.

Literally a new form of nature’s art. I was definitely getting the good Lord’s message. I felt at peace as I walked and wondered.

Zoe and I split up and walked alone. I had so many thoughts going through my head as I followed the pathways.

The creative inspiration. The unbelievable ability in nature. The discovery.

Was an absolutely beautiful way to start our day.

I told Zoe that she was going to have to take the night shift with her young eyes this time. So I took the wheel to White Sands.

Blessed by google, we were routed through the Lincoln National Forest and discovered an entirely different landscape and even some snow as we hit the Sacramento Mountains.

I kept directing Zoe to take photos. It was just all so beautiful. You can’t possibly capture it.

I pulled over and got out to snap this one. I can’t imagine getting used to this landscape. Look at that sky in combination with the rocks and snow.

I wondered if I could live out here or if the closed minded small town mentality would wear on me.

Yep it was cold. I was glad I packed my hat.

After coming down from the forest, this was our view.

The winds died down and we hit White Sands National Park and hiked a trail. It woke Zoe up. She was like a kid again. This was the only place I had been too before but wanted my daughter also to experience it.

Zoe found her natural chair. The colors here are undescribable.

We drove to another section to take in the boardwalk.

I wish we had more time to stay, but still 4 more hours to go and the sun was starting to set. We needed to get to Bisbee, Arizona. A location recommended to me by my good friend from Phuket, Virlane. So just like that, taken from her texted suggestion, off we went to southern Arizona.

Again capturing the most magnificent sunset.

Zoe drove down highway 80, a two lane narrow road in the darkest black of night you can imagine in the desert. We passed 13 border patrol officers in one hour which made Zoe very nervous. We also had about a dozen desert mice run randomly across the road. At first we thought we were hallucinating, but finally we caught focus. I told her just embrace for the “crunch- do not swerve. Luckily they all lived.

At one point while we were driving we turned on the brights and literally jolted as we saw tall mountains literally beside us. We had no idea what we were missing in the dark. But we arrived safely to our ecclectic Airbnb which was adorable.

The ceilings were draped in various fabric yardage.

The bedrooms were a collection of any and all cool things.

Unfortunately this place did not have heat. Only small space heaters which did no justice in the winter freeze that fell upon us that evening. I woke to the freezing rain on the metal roof as I buried my head under the covers for heat.

The next morning as I was packing up and brushing the snow off the car, I saw these coy fish wanting fed. This place would’ve been great in the summer.

Day 2- Hot Springs, Arkansas: Garven Woodlawn Gardens -Apostle Church, Gulpha Gorge and Goat Rock Trails and Historic Downtown

After Memphis, Zoe and I planned to hit the road and spend the day in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Never been to this state before and the TikToks said it was a great place to visit. I wanted to get in some hiking, it talked about a brewery in town- and that was enough for me to make a stop.

A lot of photos taken out of our car windshield attempting to capture the memories. We named our car Crystal.

Our first stop was the Garvan Woodland Gardens. There was a church I saw on Instagram once and wanted to check it out. It was located here.

This massive sculpture was in front. Reminded me a bit of my trip to Columbus, Indiana where they had interesting metal sculptures that you could walk through.

Remembering that looking up always offers the best views and new perspectives. I love how natural and open this felt.

My heart was in love with the manmade work with nature. Whoever designed this was showing how in synch we can be.

Zoe, checking it out from the other side. She seems naturally part of it as well.

Our timing getting to the church was perfect. They were about to close it off to visitors as a wedding was starting soon. Zoe and I were able to peak inside before the ceremony started.

I told George before I left that I was hoping to have God open my eyes again to the beauty around me on this trip. I’ve felt distanced. This was definitely taking me back to my roots and faith.

Architecture always amazes me. The thought put into each part for a structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing building or sculpture. Genius.

We walked along the path which took us to a cute little gazebo.

Then to this incredible outdoor amphitheater.

Can you find Zoe sitting out there. That should give you an idea of how grand this was.

I asked her to take the stage while I sat in the grassy seats.

The next day was our long day driving through Texas. I did a quick glance to see how far from the border we were.

Mural as we drove through the town trying to find our trailhead.

We climbed up to the top of this trail. Man I am out of shape!

Then we veered off to see the Goat Rock Viewpoint.

The trailhead from the campgrounds started with us crossing this beautiful clear stream. I swear the weather was perfect. So nice to get out of the cold for a bit.

Very few people on the trails. Was a quiet hike.

This trail immediately started with steps and a steep incline. I saw a young couple with the mom papoosing the baby and I thought, there is no way I could carry an extra 20 lbs with me. Then I realized I probably gained that much in the last year, so I already was 🙂

This was the peak of the Gulpha Gorge trail where they showed historically how long it’d been there. This town has a lot of history to it because of the natural springs.

Hiking through the woods, showing my daughter the free beauty in life.

We made it to the top and enjoyed the view.

Hot Springs National Park was one of the first established.

Loving the colors of the natural stones.

Tree chair perfect to rest. I think this hike was preparing me for all the steps and lifting I did later when I moved Zoe into her apartment. Does make me thankful that I am still capable.

We decided to check out the downtown and grab a beer.

This was an old bath house and is now the only brewery using hot spring natural water in their beer. It was so good!

We sat outside and it was hilarious. All the songs playing I loved. Zoe questioned if they stole my play list. Made me feel better than there are others that enjoy my musical taste.

We found out that many places are haunted. Unlike some locations that make this a “feature” here in Hot Springs they do not talk about it. They never admit to any of it and have even closed off entire floors to avoid the spirits.

The haunting started as early as the early 1900s because this city started “selling” the holistic healing of the hot springs and people with all sorts of uncurable illness came here to be cured. Well, they weren’t. My understanding is the bodies stacked up in the still -standing Veteran’s Hospital.

There are several still functioning bath houses.

This town’s bath houses were built around gambling which was huge here.

We didn’t have time to peak our heads into any of them. It was getting late, we had done a lot already and needed to settle in and find a place to watch the Super Bowl.

Anyone that is a history buff would enjoy this city. There was plenty of tales to be told here.

Zoe and I filled up our water bottles at the station. I drank mine warm hoping it would cure my cough. I woke up thinking a miracle had happened, but it didn’t.

A little history on the streets. We saw a lot of people dressed in Kansas City jerseys and Zoe and I teasingly taunted them and said “Go Eagles”.

Cherry blossoms in February? Wow what a blue sky day will do for my soul.

Zoe was telling me that there is a 513″ bar in Los Angeles that she can go and watch the Bengals game at. Then we stumbled across the Ohio Club. Guess we Ohioans are everywhere!

When did city murals take off? I know in Cincinnati it was not that long ago- maybe the past 10 years?

We walked back to the car and spotted a park where you could touch the hot springs.

It was hot. I really don’t know how people endure it.

England-Idlewild Park North Loop Trail- Burlington, Kentucky

It occurred to me after walking with Kassie, (via FaceTime) a lifelong friend who I’ve shared many great adventures tromping in Manhattan with prior to my quitting SKL, (oh the stories we could tell) that those that follow me on this blog feel a part of my life. Feel like they know what’s going on and how life is treating me based on my stories.

The truth is that we all use social media the same. To share the positives (hopefully) and to provide optimism in the moments we grab in life that make us happy. I scroll to seek those shared glimpses but I am sure behind every family vacation shot of smiles there are stories of teenage angst and spousal quarrels. My trip to Knoxville last year for Mother’s Day for example, as much as I saw and captured visual joys with my daughters, was a weekend of silent treatments, negative energy and wishing I could just be alone.

My answer many times to discomfort is to escape. To seek joy elsewhere to avoid the work and pain that comes with hard communication and compromise. Maybe I feel I already spent my years silently absorbing the pain and now I don’t want to tolerate it anymore. Its been a tough road for me to adjust back to reality of relationships and family drama. I’d much rather be the light I know I can be and shine through my adventures alone. Afterall its easier alone, the decisions are yours, the wrong turns are yours to own and you really don’t need to communicate. (which has always been my issue)

Today I heard a reel that said “What keeps us from suffering is the constant seeking of pleasure. That we as humans are never content and always attempting to alleviate our suffering.” (ie: addiction issues) Instead we need to “crave peace over pleasure and find joy in the challenge.”

I definitely seek pleasure through my hikes. I am forever curious of nature’s wonders and its true that if I don’t get my fill of it, I’m a little lost. A temporary high I like to share and blog to remember. But I also appreciate the challenges that push me to think differently and bend my temperament. And this is why I walk in life with friends and continue to grow in my love with George.

I found out my friend Kevin was free Saturday so I asked if he’d want to go on a hike with me. He questioned what the weather was going to be like, and honestly, that wasn’t even a consideration to me as I’ll hike in anything! We completely lucked out and it was an amazing blue sky day with sunshine and temps in the 50s. Yep, in January.

I found this trail that I never did before and it was rated decently so we drove down to Burlington.

When we arrived it was a little tough finding the trail head but we found the map and of course AllTrails is also helpful and kept us from going too far in the wrong direction.

This little guy was enjoying the sun on the pavement, but we moved him off to avoid his sudden death.

The shadows were fun as the sun beamed into the woods.

First impression was all the same trees and coloration. I was happy it was at least not a paved trail.

This tree stopped me as I wondered its history of life. It seemed to have endured plenty and taken on many personalities with its wounds. I saw a deer face in this view.

On the other side looked like a monster throwing up. I often think creatives who write stories and invent sci fi monsters must seek inspiration from trees.

Snapped a photo through the hole of this burl.

Later figured out that this is a mountain bike trail.

You could see the tracks from past bikers but none were on the trails today.

Cute mushroom scallops were found everywhere.

Admiring the dimensions on the surface and the monotone coloration of this season’s landscape.

And the wonderland feel to this collage.

We finally wove our way down the zigzag trails to the creek’s edge. The water was so clear.

A typical winter view with the bare trees, dead leaf ground coverage and mossy banks.

Across the way was a single bench and I pictured an older me sitting for a break.

Still some snow leftover from the previous storm.

When we made it to the bridge to cross over we still had 2 miles to go.

Beaming sunrays kept shining through as the trees protected us from the wind.

A selfie to capture our time together, sporting my new hat my sister gave me from the Grand Rapids Meijer Gardens.

I kept stopping to admire the views along the walk. Peaceful. Quiet. Still.

Kevin was attempting to show off his strength holding this bad boy up as it was leaning toward the water.

Something about this photo looked like an animal leaning into the creek for a drink and a huge spider monster coming over to get him.

Several times we saw the planes as they were landing at the airport nearby. Captured this Southwest flight looking up.

As we were walking I spotted this dying moth showing off his beautiful colors as he was barely flapping his wings. I always wondered what happened to the beautiful butterflies that die in ways other than splattering on your windshield. I mean does some animal eat them? You never see them lying about.

Added terrain for the bikes, but super helpful for hikers too when the trail got too muddy.

Kevin and I got caught up on our latest adventures. He is never still for long and its always fun to hear what he experienced.

Think it took us about 1.5 hours and the shadows were leaning a new way once we headed out.

We spotted a family of 8 grown female deer that stopped and starred at us with their ears perked. Its amazing how they blend instantly to the background.

Leaving, the light was shimmering on the creek. A perfect walk on a perfect day.

Columbus hike – Scioto Trail

Picking up Zoe on my way to drop KangKang off in Columbus was the best idea I had in awhile 🙂 She was exactly who I needed to be with to reset.

Zoe will be moving to LA next month and I plan to road trip with her there and help get her situated. A fun memory filled cross country drive is on the calendar with a van rental booked and no return ticket home. Who knows, maybe I will stay awhile. The benefits of working remote!

I googled mapped a trail to hike to help break up the drive home and ended up along the river with a view of the city of Columbus.