It was time to check in with KangKang again and she asked to go on a hike. It was the perfect opportunity for us to get some quality time together but also catch the fall leaves in transition. It was a gorgeous morning when I arrived and the day continued to bless us throughout.
We saw double numbers when we started. I thought of Virlane and her angel numbers. These double digits appeared several times throughout the day and made us feel we were meant to be together. Afterall, the Universe did connect us and we both know that it was not by chance. Rarely is the Universe so lazy as to allow for coincidences.
I found this small trail on the map that promised water and was in the right direction to the shopping mall we were going to hit later.
We got there early and there was only a handful of people out. I’d never been to this area of Columbus before.
Literally the minute we walked into the main trail the trees welcomed us with an enlightened calm of green and yellow.
I kept looking at the fallen leaves, admiring how large they were.
I walked out onto this rock ledge to peer at the stream below. We were determined to find our way down there.
Kang Kang kept saying how beautiful our country is and how her mom would love to hike here. I could tell she was a bit homesick. After the excitement and nervousness of coming to a new place settles, you are left with the reality of your choices and the loneliness that you are faced with.
The trail couldn’t have been better. Each portion showed a new combination of colors.
Looking down instead of up made me think about the beauty of the decent rather than the climb.
We found a way to get down to the flat rocks by the stream and sat for quite a bit talking about personality tests, loved ones and the challenges facing us.
Nothing beats listening to the water move.
Noticing how the leaves created a natural dam in spots, adding color to the grey rocks.
Was so nice to sit together before trying to hunt down some winter attire for the months ahead. When she was buying her Timberland boots, a kind lady next to us told her how much she was going to love the snow. She can’t wait. She’s never experienced it before in her life. Such a treat she has yet to savor.
Beauty in decay.
Noticing the reflection in the still water.
Looking up was such an experience that is only temporarily colored during this fascinating season. Always good to enjoy it through someone’s new eyes. Imagine never seeing this before. How cool it must feel to be surrounded by it live, instead of just on the pages of Instagram.
The yellow was vibrant in places.
But the mixture of colors was the best!
I haven’t been hiking much this fall and am about to miss the season. Hoping to finish up some projects to be able to get out again before it vanishes.
Heading back, we breathed it all in.
“Nothing gold can stay”- Robert Frost.
But friendship can and the way the sun rays broke through the trees capturing us in this selfie was validation of ours.
Putting aside time for friends I never regret. My circle has always provided me with insight and growth as I listen to their stories and we catch up on our lives. Most of my friends by now know a walk in the woods is an excellent way to get onto my calendar.
I’m pet/house sitting this weekend up in the Mason area which is exciting because that means new trails to explore.
This looked like an odd trail located in the backfields of a baseball park. I was a bit nervous that it was a bike path, but opted to check it out anyways.
Immediately I was welcomed by wildflowers.
This plant mystified me as it was swarming with mating bugs. If you look closely you will see there are two bugs on top of each other. I thought spring was mating season, but apparently these guys are in it for fall.
Our path led under thick tree coverage which was great for beating the late afternoon sun.
This tall weed was so pretty sprouting its purple horns.
These daisies were temptingly pickable. I wanted to make a bouquet, but snapped a photo instead.
We stumbled across the stream. I love the sound of the running water. Have you all seen the reel going around on Instagram where the man speaks about “what if God is actually water”? It was so eye opening to me.
We came across some flat rock falls.
The steep bank kept us from crossing or getting a closer look.
Vines intertwined with many of the trees.
Looking down from the edge.
Sarah wore tie dye appropriately. I also was wearing my new tie dye tee that George bought for me at a street fair. I regret not taking a selfie of us together. We looked quite the pair.
I was able to cross the stream and squatted in the middle on a rock to breathe in this view, admiring all the textures placed into one gorgeous place.
We kept climbing up and down as the path wickedly wove in and out. We only encountered one group of mountain bikers who seemed to be struggling with the terrain.
This Sycamore tree reminded me of vitiligo.
Fungi was everywhere.
We were lost for a bit and ended up at the opposite end where we discovered another falls.
Later kids were playing in the water as their parents sat by watching them enjoy the simple joys in life, electronic free.
A beautifully decaying tree like a piece of art itself.
We exited to find this tribute. Agree light is found under the coverage of trees.
Fungi beauty dressing up this tree stump.
Logs for bikers being slowly absorbed by the earth. Reminded me of the metal bike sign I saw on a tree previously that was being swallowed by the bark. Nature may be slow at times but it is very powerful.
Another slow progression of decay and absorption with this termite invested tree.
As we were heading out I spotted this large camouflaged toad. First time I’ve seen one so large.
After an hour’s walk in the heat, I talked Sarah into checking out a brewery that was only 1.5 miles away. We arrived thankfully before the rush and relaxed at a picnic bench outdoors cooling off with a cold brew and some grub.
As trusted friends we were open with our vulnerability and honest with one another about the challenges we are facing. Oftentimes I appreciate how alcohol can give you bravery to speak your truths.
This is located in the midst of an industrial park. Strange location, but everyone found it even on a weekend. I can imagine it being a hot spot after work, if in fact people are going into the offices.
The outdoor seating was a perfectly spaced open area welcoming the mixed aged crowd complete with dogs and children.
This quote reminds me of all my friends who are ever changing and finding themselves again in mid life.
Always love a state park. They were a Godsend when I was road tripping, always offering a place to camp or crash for the night. There was one only 12 minutes from Ann’s house, so I talked her into hitting a trail with me. I bet this area in Ohio has some amazing hikes but honestly I just wanted to get out for quick bit before I headed back home.
We picked an out and back trail so we could stop at a certain hour and turn around. I thought it would be scenic since it went along the lakeside.
There were several trails from this trailhead, but we stuck with our original route and took a left after climbing a steep incline up to the lake.
Snapped this selfie before we got too sweaty and worn out. Just getting started.
As soon as we got to the top we were able to see a view of the lake. There were a few kayakers and fisherman but otherwise quite still.
After the open field area, we were immediately welcomed by the shade provided with the heavy tree coverage.
The trail was narrow and Ann and I walked single filed. I’m sure she only heard half of what I was babbling about 🙂
Trees were tall beauties. Looking up to see their reach.
Occasionally we would get a peak through the trees at the quiet lake. We did pass a group of young men swimming which looked fun.
Mushrooms were everywhere.
Ann spotted this tiny pink one. You can see her shoe for size reference. Not even sure how she spotted him.
This one reminded us of Alice in Wonderland.
The narrow path just kept going. Probably around the entire lake.
A very peaceful walk in the woods.
Discovered this white wonder on the leaf along the trail.
We put in a solid hour then headed back to Ann’s for an amazing brunch to fill my belly before heading back to Cincy.
I wondered why there weren’t more boats out.
Such cool colors.
The moss and shroom combo is so delicate. God is amazing with details.
This handsome tree was no joke on the lookout.
We resurfaced out from the tree coverage to the grassy plain to take us back to where we started.
Looking down from our viewpoint at where we parked. Surrounded by green.
This love bug was so entertaining to me. I wondered who had the humor, why and how long ago. Eye catching along Route 550.
Debbie and I put this date on our calendars a couple months back. We weren’t sure where we were going but wanted an excuse to get away. It was the weekend before her birthday, so the timing was perfect to celebrate.
We met up at the Cox Arboretum. I saw someone post about it on FB and I had never heard of it before. It’s right off the highway and distance wise right in the middle of where Debbie and I live.
I took a photo of the map but it didn’t help us from getting lost in the trails.
A nice time to visit with the flowers now in bloom. There were so many families getting professional photos taken. Made me regret never having professional shots done when the kids were younger.
A couple stopped along the sidewalk and watched as I cuddled the flowers of this beautiful bush. They asked me if I knew what it was. I did not. But I encouraged them to touch it too and they did. It was feathery soft and so delicate.
I sat on this rock waiting for Debbie, watching the coy and turtles swim.
This mallard acted like he was a professional at getting his photo taken. Had no fear whatsoever. Notice the cute turtles sunning on the rock behind him. This arboretum was such a great little place.
Loved how the trees in the background spiked against the fluffy pink petals.
Man made landscaping, perfectly manicured.
I spotted this treehouse and convinced Debbie to go up even though I know she hates steps. But it was not too bad of a climb.
It was fun to get to the top and check out the view.
We talked about jumping and whether we would survive or not. It reminded me of our cliff jumping Christmas Day in Phuket with my girls.
Then we hit the trails.
Led us to a bird watching area. But there honestly weren’t many birds. Just a marshland to look out on, but it was a shaded place to sit for a bit.
I think the outside trail was about 1.5 miles around.
Never forgetting to look up. Always reminding myself to pause.
Debbie walks at a good pace that I can keep up with. We both get a little exercise but never are exhausted. Great to catch up on life while also appreciating nature.
Their little meditation garden.
Check out how that branch curves as if framing the bench.
Wanting to explore more Debbie and I, being the overachievers that we are, decided to find a another true trail to conquer before checking into our Airbnb in Southpark. We headed 20 minutes east to Sugarcreek.
Dayton really does a good job at marking their trails.
We decided to take the outer loop, but actually ended off trail and through some pretty muddy areas. I was glad I swapped out my tevas for my hiking boots.
I love that the green is back in season and shading the pathways.
Saw this hallow tree and Debbie encouraged me to climb inside.
So I did.
I was thinking I could probably sleep in there. But then spotted the ants and decided conceptually against it.
Me taking a photo of Debbie taking a photo of me.
There was sidewalk chalk left on a bench so we decided to add to the graffiti.
Debbie gave this wood piece a personality.
I had no idea what the three sisters were, but of course was going to find out.
A little ways in we saw this huge tree!
I made Debbie go pose so you could get a sense of perspective.
They were magnificent. I guess these are the sisters. Except we didn’t see the third.
We crossed over the creek and this is where things went astray for a bit.
Cute couple walking hand in hand. She was wearing a skirt and didn’t seem hiking ready which made me wonder if this was planned or a first date continued.
Me being me.
Such a tangled mess we were about to walk under.
I was appreciating these baby wildflowers.
Was truly picturesque. I have been working three jobs and I very much needed to breathe in the woods again. Helps my soul so much. Makes it all worthwhile. A true day of rest.
I blasted out this photo so you could see the curves in the trunk. It was naturally carved into life. I felt like she was reaching for me.
We came across this stone staircase and I encouraged Debbie to walk down with me.
River roots always make me better understand life and strength.
Some kids came down and took off their shoes and played a bit while Debbie and I sat across the way on a stone watching them.
The trail out. My hips were hurting and we were both a humid sweaty mess. I gave myself mental strength by planning to look up the closest brewery and head there for a much needed cool break while we waited for the Airbnb code.
There was a huge storm coming and we barely made it to a bar before it poured!
We ended up sitting at Toxic Brew in the Oregon district and enjoyed a couple cold ones while sitting outside watching and listening to the storm. We were tennis partners, Synchronized swimmers, Friends since childhood. Friends for Life.
Sunday before heading out of town, we hit one last recommended place. Thing about travelling with my twins, they grab attention everywhere they go. People want to talk to them and its interesting to see how they easily engage in conversations with strangers.
It was great having them note all the places to go from local’s mouths, tossing all the research and bookmarked places aside. I have taught them well. I never would have heard or even thought about checking out the University’s Gardens, but it ended up being the perfect Mother’s Day destination.
This mascot was everywhere when we were riding the trolley through campus and here he was at the gardens as well.
Entry sign, very plain and simple.
Located right along the curve of the river. Don’t you wonder how Google maps knows a location is busier than usual?
Cute colorful sculpture at the entrance. They also had a creative kids area which I avoided.
Beautiful rose gardens.
Literally stopped to admire the unique scent and shape of these bushes.
Look at the varying colors of this beauty!
This rose was in a league of his own.
I never realized before how the different colors smell, but it makes sense.
I enjoyed seeing them in their natural environment.
Perfect spring visit.
Zozo up ahead. I admire how she is at ease in front of every photo never worrying about how she is captured. She is uniquely herself always. Such a light.
Couldn’t get enough of these blooms.
This garden seemed to be run by volunteers.
Each maintained a certain designated area. We knew who the slackers were.
I wished she would have been in bloom somehow.
Educational areas were set aside.
Artistic edible garden.
Greenhouse in the background assuming was part of the education at UT.
There was a cactus section that reminded me of my trip out West in May last year.
Literal perfection.
Admired her curves.
This became a natural part of the landscape as an antique sculpture.
Honey bee and designated pollinator wildflowers.
Was thinking of my mom who loved purple.
Cool little boardwalk.
Interesting pine plant.
We all meandered separately and occasionally I would see Zoe and holler at her to pose.
My favorite part was this hidden meditation garden. I started at the entrance and walked my way through the maze which instinctively reminded me that our roads turn and we do not know where they lead but must trust and enjoy the twists and turns. It was a perfect reset for me.
On our way to Chattanooga, we decided to take a detour to the Rock Island State Park which is south of Cooksville, Tennessee. We randomly pulled it up when researching hikes and thought it may be a nice stop along the way to break up the drive.
We stopped at the information center because George is obsessed with brochures and hey, ya never know who might have new ones 🙂 Picked up this free map from a gal that had zero personality and certainly was not in love with her job.
We drove back the way we came in and crossed over several bridges until we finally met a dead end where the trail head appeared. Surprisingly there was only a couple cars in the lot.
Immediately upon exiting the car you could hear the roar of the falls and I was super anxious to get to them.
I was so excited. I had to figure out a way to get closer.
My model captured naturally. Seriously an amazing site of my love and nature 🙂
Further downstream there were more cascading falls.
I looked up ahead and if I could figure out a way to cross this part of the river to that island, I could certainly scale the rocks to the opposite side to take a closer look.
I made it across after much hesitation, strategic planning of my steps and completely soaking my boots. Well worth this up close experience where I found two other girls meditatively taking it in.
I honestly felt a little guilty leaving George behind. He had a swollen ankle and was timidly walking as it was. I went to the far corner and snapped this shot of him.
I’d love to go back here again and sit for hours. Can you see me in this photo? Shows you how close I got. George took it from where he stood. Imagine the sound, it was deafening.
Oddly, for the first time, I felt like being alone was not enough. I really wanted George with me to experience it. I am a solo traveler at heart and always embrace being silent in nature. But today, I felt a tug to get back to sort of celebrate this site.
I think I’ve had this look since childhood.
As we drove away, we had to stop at this adorable, teenage run, ice-cream trolley.
I opted for coffee flavor, in hopes of staying awake for the remainder of the car ride.
I opened a link that someone posted on FB about the top ten hikes in Ohio and discovered the Cincinnati Nature Center which is only 30 minutes from me. So happy!
It was a gorgeous weekend, hotter than usual and I had plans with my neighbor Nancy to spend the afternoon outdoors. Nancy is usually my urban hiking partner who always leaves me in the dust going up and down the Cincinnati “hills.
It was Earth Day, what a perfect time to discover a new trail.
There are several trails to pick from and this one appeared to be in the “green space.
Beautiful garden walkways. They also had a lot of vendors selling natural hand made products which made me regret leaving my wallet in the car.
Cute metal sculpture with names of donors.
The trails were not well marked and I did my best with the AllTrails app to get ourselves started in the right direction. In the end a nice employee guided us to the limestone steps that eventually took us down.
Once we got to the herb garden, we took a sharp right and followed the path.
Lush greenery lined the trails. It costs $10 per person to get in. Seemed steep to me at first, but well worth it. I can’t imagine how much it costs to maintain this area.
There were a lot of steps. And between my lovely hot flashes and the sun, I soon lost my tee and hiked mostly in my tank.
We travelled up and down getting a very good workout.
Eventually there was a stream which we had to cross several times. I literally was so hot I walked in the water, cooling off with my easy dry sneakers. Nancy continued to rock hop to stay dry.
Many of the wildflowers were in bloom. Was really pretty. I should have stopped more to admire them.
Like a fairytale.
Unsuccessfully attempting to capture the colors of the blue flowers and purple on the trees.
What do you see? Janet Jackson possibly? I loved how the flowers were sprouting off the tumors” of the tree.
Sending Nancy ahead to leap frog across.
We were pretty much on our own for this loop. Maybe one other couple took this route.
There was one area at the end where they had posts to hang hammocks to save the trees but promote the trend. We saw one person reading a book and enjoying the peace. I need to take advantage of my backyard hammock, this was a perfect reminder.
Heading down to the backside of the trail. Not for the elderly.
A few mushrooms always.
This dog knew just how to cool off and laid flat in the stream.
We decided to take a longer route back and discovered a small lake, gazebo and wooden walkway. We sat there for a bit and others took our cue and did the same. Nancy soaked her feet in the water and we watched the Canadian geese go by.
A nice discovery.
Gorgeous reflection.
Trees are still a bit bare and I’m looking forward to them filling in this summer.
I would love to go back and try a different route next time. There were so many trails heading in different directions.
At the end I noticed this educational center where there were bones laid out that were found in the area and you were suppose to guess which animal it came from. Pretty cool.
On my schedule for about a month in advance was another hike to check in with my friend Sarah. I appreciate people that make time, set dates and stick to them. But more importantly, I can appreciate friends that don’t judge, accept all walks of life, embrace change and growth, listen and appreciate nature. That’s Sarah!
We needed a hike close by that wouldn’t eat up our entire Sunday.
This one right across the river in Fort Thomas was perfect and I haven’t been there before.
As soon as we started, I noticed this cardinal brightly colored, carved out of a stump.
I googled and found an entire article written in their local press about this trail and the artist Chris Rust. https://www.crcarving.com/the-artist – I’m contacting him to see if he would be willing to do a carving in my back yard as a memorial to our beloved Cookie who we had to put to sleep this February.
The trails were muddy in parts. We literally slid down a hill and saved ourselves by cutting through an off trail area. But you could see a lot of gravel dumped on the sides, so they definitely maintain and look to be ready to freshen up the trails for spring/summer.
There was a lot of running water areas throughout this loop.
Another carving, a beautifully colored owl.
Along the mile hike were bright blue park benches which contrasted with the dull, dried, tan landscape, but I imagine in the summer will blend in with the cool green background.
The wise soul was my favorite.
Another babbling creek.
Then we discovered this cool fort along the banks. Reminded me of my childhood forts and made me wonder if any adults discovered them like we are now.
We spotted three green aliens up ahead.
One was cowering on the stump looking up at others.
I asked Sarah to pose by the peace sign guy.
Loved the creativity. Even put some alien scribe along the fallen log.
On her way back down to the path, Sarah noticed the alien was not holding a rock, but rather was intently looking at a sculpted rabbit who was posed looking equally interested in him.
As we continued wandering, we noticed this path with a humorous no trespassing sign. Noting that “violators will be shot and survivors will be shot again” 🙂
Looking up at where the path led to, besides to these clever tongued gun -toating Kentuckians, it looked like a tiny house or possibly a self sustaining area.
Bridges were accessible at many points where crossing the creeks would of otherwise posed an issue for the less avid hiker.
I stopped to admire the lush greenery that was now covering an area in between the two creeks.
Crossing over again.
Loved seeing the purple flower heads peeking out from winter’s wrath.
I posed by the last gnome, happy to catch a glimpse at all these clever carvings which added such fun discovery to this trail.
Last weekend, I wanted to hike a trail and get outdoors while the weather was somewhat sunny. While checking my AllTrails app, I noticed there was an arboretum within an hour drive and it was the place where the Forest Giants lived.
I heard about these giants years ago, when my sister and brother-in-law stopped to see them on their way back from a concert. Tim always finds interesting off- beat places of interest.
This is the trail I saw on AllTrails that I thought I would conquer.
Sign at the entrance, where they ask for a 10$ donation. I read that there was usually a long line to get in, so I arrived at 10 am. When I left at 12:30 the que was backed up to the road.
According to their website the giants were placed in 2019 as part of a 90th anniversary for the forest. Completed by Danish artist, Thomas Dambo, who constructed three giant sculptures throughout the arboretum using recycled wood from the region.
At the gift shop they had a write up about Issac Wolfe Bernheim and how this educational forest came to be.
As you walked around there was tons of educational signage. A perfect family friendly spot.
At the gate, they passed me this map which became my new hiking trail route.
I cut through fields and trails avoiding the baby strollers and running toddlers on the paved walkways.
First trail to follow.
Took me through some wooded areas, a prairie field and eventually to a giant.
In one of the fields was this sculpture trio.
I was having fun looking at them from different angles. Nobody else seemed to want to walk onto the grass which made me wonder if I was allowed to.
Maybe the parents were avoiding it so their kids wouldn’t climb on top.
I spotted this sweet sitting area which I bet in the summertime is a great place to find shade and hide from the crowds.
Came across a foot which made me believe I was getting closer.
I headed down another trail named Sun Shade Loop.
I wondered what families thought as they saw me solo.
Once I got to this pregnant giant, I could see the attraction. The kids sat in wonder and climbed up to become part of the sculpture.
Love how they named them. As I was walking I heard one toddler, maybe 3-4 years old, ask his mom if the giant would still be sleeping when he got there or if she would be awake. Love their imaginations and wonder.
Great facts along the route. I enjoyed seeing the families getting much needed exercise after the winter covid months.
I’m sure there were other trails deeper in the woods, but I decided my goal was to see the giants.
This giant had a little maze that all ages seemed to enjoy.
My favorite photo was capturing this little girl inside the arm looking up in admiration of the giant, seemingly unknowing of its creation but more of the life it was here to give.
I headed away from the crowds and ended up following a trail around a lake.
Natural structures were positioned along the path.
As well as black history heros of environmental conservation.
A lot of people were out fishing along the water’s edge.
I came across another sculpture. Was fun how they made you walk to see them all. Maybe families came and conquered certain paths on different days, but I tried to see as much as I could all within the couple hours I was there.
Appreciating man and nature.
I loved this tree and how it appeared as if it was a monster swooping down to earth.
Save the people from the clash of race and creed From the strife of class and faction Make our nation free indeed Keep her faith in simple manhood Strong as when her life began til it finds its full fruition in the brotherhood of man.
I hiked up a very steep hill and when I got to the top saw this old silo.
This was a truer natural hike that was practically empty. Occasionally I would come across a family who also adventured off the giant’s paved trails.
I don’t know why but these leaves reminded me of ghosts.
As if they were leftover dead hanging on. My morbid mind. But nature always shows us death is never the ending, just part of the cycle.
Once I exited this trail I saw the sign. I must have entered from the opposite way.
Across the street was another giant by the water.
I loved its positioning, as if looking at themselves in the reflection of the water.
“My vision embraces that all will be made welcomed and treated with an equal consideration with no distinction related to wealth or race.” He must have been an awesome man leaving this legacy, preservation and creed behind.
More sculpture lined the path.
A birds egg or some sort? Not really sure but interesting nonetheless.
I am struggling to upload any more photos onto this site. I am not sure if WordPress now limits the amount of data you can upload, but its frustrating since my blog is usually a visual blog and not so much about verbiage. I found a quote but the photo won’t upload.
Tonya Takes Thailand 