Day 4 Frisco and Dillion Lake-Colorado

I struggled with the rental car’s map/Bluetooth system. Whenever I plugged in my phone to charge it, Bluetooth wanted to convert. Electronics I swear. Once my phone was finally fully charged, I was able to unplug and look at my map while Kassie was using hers for navigating.

When I zoomed around Frisco, I spotted a lighthouse that I thought could be interesting to check out. Kassie smartly asked, “what do they need a lighthouse out here for?”

When we arrived at the marina, it was a mini lighthouse, like a prop. She was right. It was funny that this icon is what got us to Frisco. Reminded me of Tiffani and the giant tree in Michigan. (which btw wasn’t so giant)

The reservoir on the map looked like an oasis and we found a short trail to hike before finalizing the last leg of our drive.

But first we grabbed some coffee in Frisco to wake up a bit. Admittedly we were both dragging.

We picked another outdoor spot and attempted to get our energies back in order. Kassie double fisted with a coffee and an immune booster. We are rebels right?

She created this split screen shot on snap chat. Showing our different views at the small shop’s table.

We mapped our way to the trail head. Only one other car in site.

Trail was mostly along a paved bike path. We later decided, should we ever come back, that would be the way to go. Rent an E bike and just take our time going around the lake.

The lake offered serenity. A distant fisherman. Quiet waters. Only one soul in sight.

Kassie is a Pieces so the water speaks to her.

We went our separate ways for a bit and just sat quietly. Life doesn’t get easier, it just evolves into a different stage to be challenged by. At our age, the quiet and peace of mind is sometimes tough to find. My menopausal induced anxiety and brain chatter is tough to stop. Our constant on -the -move schedules to make ends meet, often times overcomes us. But a moment like this should always be taken. In silence. I love that Kassie appreciated that.

I walked along the rocky beach to take in as many views as I could.

Captured Kassie in her meditative state.

Taking it all it before we go back to the real world.

At the very start of the trail we took a selfie. You can see the head behind Kassie of the older gentleman we came across that was holding a trout when we approached and asked us to snap a photo.

What is it with men and their fish photos? That was one of the things on Bumble when dating that was an automatic swipe left 🙂 Like you conquered a fish and you think that will impress me? But I imagine he was taking the photo back to show his wife who was patiently waiting for him at the bench on top of the slope. Maybe it does impress some women.

Walking out I snapped one last image with the small bush in the forefront.

And a better selfie before we hit the road.

Kassie drove around the lake and discovered an outdoor amphitheater which had a band playing. A lot of food trucks outside too and free parking. But we both felt we needed to get moving toward Denver.

We continued toward the sprawling city leaving the mountains behind.

We crashed at her friend Leanne’s house and enjoyed Indian take-out for dinner while sitting in the most perfect bug free outdoor environment. (probably my last time for awhile) My flight was leaving early in the am and Kassie graciously offered to drive me, but Leanne told us about a train that was convenient and would save Kassie a lot of driving should she hit morning rush hour on the way back. I’m no premadonna and use public transportation as much as I can while traveling, so this seemed like a win win.

Snapped this on the way to the train station at 6 am, still on my passenger look out duty. Made me wish I had more time to explore the Denver area.

Leanne’s advise was perfect. This was a fabulous way to get to the airport. Was only $10 and took 1/2 hour without any concern for traffic jams. All was smooth upon arrival. Back to Ohio I go. Was an amazing weekend with so much to take in, contemplate and cherish.

Day 4 Glenwood Springs-Colorado

On Monday, Kassie and I packed up and hit the road back to Denver. I’m sure Bobby and Lisa would be thankful to give their livers a rest. We decided we would take our time, have an open agenda, stop when and where we wanted, as long as night time driving was avoided.

Again my passenger duty, I took many photos from my window view.

Our first stop was Doc Holiday’s gravesite. At Bobby and Lisa’s recommendation I have since watched the Wyatt Earp Netflix documentary and now love even more that we stopped here. I visited Tombstone, Arizona with Zoe on her move to California but at that time I did not truly appreciate all the US history that occurred there.

A little history about how they moved the cemetery up the mountain to avoid issues with flooding and potential landslides. I imagine that would be a hot mess nobody would want to deal with.

Of course the trail was up a steep hill, which, when you stopped, offered gorgeous views. Guess the climb is worth it.

The landscape colors reminded me of desert terrain. Love the various green tones vs the warm red dirt trail.

We came across this wishing tree which someone told us was started by a cancer patient in the community. I Googled it – “Annie’s Wishing Tree started by Annie Zancanella when she was receiving cancer treatments.” We all need hope and support. Kassie moved a pinecone over staying eco. The baby doll is sort of creepy in the mix.

Once you reached the plateau there were several very old tombstones.

And of course a Potter’s field for immigrants and those in poverty. As we walked I found it odd that just because you have money you are marked as if worth more in history than others. I most likely would’ve ended up here. And I’m okay with that. Once I leave this Earth, I am meant to be free.

Something was eerily intriguing about this field. As if the branches were reaching out from below. Or they were doing an odd dance together in the grass. Feels painful somehow and cohesive.

The view beyond was stunning. Kassie found a trail outside of the cemetery area and we wandered a bit not knowing if it was legit or private property. We soon met a local hiking with his dogs and Kassie continued up the mountain to see if there was a better view. I never did get her photos to know.

Beautiful day. We saw an amusement park on top of one mountain that you reached via gondola. I wondered what riding a roller coaster up there would look like.

It was quiet up here. Not many hikers or tourists.

Hiking back down, Kassie was getting hangry and we headed into town to grab some lunch at the brewery.

Always love a local brewery. We opted for their house-made rootbeer and split an amazing salad and turkey rueben. No complaints on the food here!

We sat outdoors and of course, it started raining. We were able to scoot the table and Kassie only partially got wet.

Sitting at lunch I noticed a walkway and we decided to check it out. Just as we were, an Amtrack train pulled in heading to Chicago. What a fun way to check out towns across America. Unfortunately nothing as convenient as the trains in other countries.

Glenwood Springs is an adorable small town filled with restaurants and bars. I’d definitely come back to spend a full day.

This city has one of the largest natural springs in the world. People come to float in the section of the pool that is darkest. Lisa also told us about other smaller hot spring options also in the area.

Captured this view through the gate along the walkway.

There were several little shacks along the sidewalks with a table and bench set up inside. Sweet little lunch spot and several were filled with people enjoying.

Under the road they made use of the shade and created another outdoor seating area.

Heading out of town we followed this Airstream which was a perfect car for my windshield photos.

You are simply surrounded by the mountains.

Was glad to be seeing this section in the daylight.

We were mapping our way to Frisco for the next stop.

Kassie did an excellent job in our Blue Malibu.

Kayaking or rafting for sure would be fun in Colorado.

Love this capture with the colors in the hills and fluffy white clouds above.

What causes the differences in color? From sandy taupe to….

or a combo of both. Someone enlighten me. Virlane?

All views gorgeous against the blue skies and certainly can’t imagine the colors once the seasons change.

Think about this one for a minute. Love.

Christmas Rocks State Nature Preserve- Ohio

After grabbing some lunch at a local joint in Lancaster, we routed ourselves to another trail to end our day. Debbie and I hiked about 2.5 miles in the morning and felt great. Batteries on our phones were charged, we were hydrated and fed- what could go wrong with adding a 5 mile afternoon hike to end our Saturday.

Perfectly named for Debbie and I who whenever we see a berry tree no matter what season, we think of each other and Christmas.

There was this cute covered bridge to the right of the trail. Not sure what was past it.

Debbie looking very optimistic about where the trail was.

The first part of the trail was a straight gravel path alongside some houses and farms.

Appreciated the saw art on the chicken shed.

Then we finally came to the tree coverage and it was great. Dense. Cool. Just a few people passed us. So quiet.

There was a little creek following to the right of the trail.

I went out to take a look. Nothing much to see.

Pine needles covered some sections of the preserve. There are two loops on this trail and we decided we had the time and energy to do them both.

Then the thunderstorms hit. Was actually quite fun walking in the rain and listening to the storms around us. We felt hidden, literally untouched. You could hear the trees above catching the drops.

Those huge mushrooms made another appearance in these woods.

I swear it looks like these roots are strangling a rock monster coming through from beyond. Right?

The rain added a wonderful twist and we were both glad to have the cooler temperatures. It was not an easy section of the hike. We started getting anxious to start back.

We were at the Christmas rock section and were heading back and decided to do that added little loop. Debbie and I are always making our lives harder on these hikes, this was definitely the wrong move after a long day and the term Jacob’s Ladder should have been our first clue.

I’m going to go with the Wikipedia Hong Kong description of Jacob’s Ladder- “For the Hong Kong television drama, see The Last Steep Ascent.” All the other Biblical interpretations do not apply to the steep incline we endured. We would literally talk each other into just taking 10 steps and then resting again.

We talked about dying and what sign we would leave for each other to know we were thinking of them from above. (Yes, it was a tough hike) I told her I would leave a red leaf among the green so she would know.

We got to the top and this was the view. Was it worth it?…….nope. Now we had to go down a steep muddy incline and for me that was even worse that going up.

But we made it back to the flat gravel road that led us in and couldn’t have been happier to see this pathway again.

Literally us after. Hot. Sweaty. Wet. Not our pretty selves.

And yep, our car was the only one left in the parking lot.

We both acknowledge that we are not in the best shape. (although she is at least 50 pounds lighter than me so much less weight to carry ) Probably why a hike with Bobby and Kassie in Colorado really doesn’t sound our speed 🙂 But we also realize we need to continue to get out, challenge ourselves, and do our best to stay active as we age. It’s always a good story and feeling once we’ve exited a trail that was kicking our butts.

Our last hike from hell was 13 miles. Today’s added to a total of 8.5-ish. We are learning. But its not always about the mileage- its the terrain. Need to evaluate that better.

Wahkeena Nature Preserve

We were feeling great after our morning walk and decided to find another trail to explore. We looked up another listed short hike at Rhododendron State Nature Preserve. We thought Kerry was up for the challenge and followed her authoritative voice again, and this time we landed on private property next to a power plant. I kid you not.

We found another road right after the electric plant and took it instead hoping to find the preserve. Instead we came to Wahkeena Nature Center. Not a bad detour.

The pond with the waterlilies floating is what captured our initial attention. Then we spotted a parking lot.

I kept looking for toads but it was so overcast, none were basking in the sun.

Trail head. We were greeted by a worker who was so kind. Passed us a map and told us he was available for any questions if we wanted help identifying.

This trail was very well marked and easy to follow. A bit of ups and down but great scenery along the way.

Debbie and I spotted these very tall mushrooms off in the distance. I wanted to get a closer shot but didn’t want to wander off the trail into the preserve. Thank goodness for zoom capabilities.

The log cabin was used as the nature center. We never went in because we were getting pretty hungry. Debbie remembered the extra battery charger but forgot the snacks for her sugar lows.

There was a small quiet area where this barn owl was housed. In the pamphlet it said he had been hit by a car and was no longer able to be in the wild. They were using him for educational purposes.

Honestly have never seen an owl up close before. But made me wonder how in the world did a car hit him?

Say Yes to Michigan

My little sister Tiffani road tripped from her home in Tennessee to travel together to our nephew’s wedding in Michigan. I love how road trips offer time trapped with a destination focus and yet open to many detour possibilities along the way. It also allows conversations to unfold and thoughtful heartfelt advise to be shared.

Comfy clothes, make up free and ready to roll.

We found a hotel as we drove up, close to my next morning appointment at Meijer Headquarters. It was a convenient stop since I was already driving up and our sales rep was also in the midwest visiting family.

Once that appointment was completed, Tiff and I decided to check out a park in Grand Rapids called Millennium Park.

It offered a lot of different walkways and activities. We wanted to get some exercise and decided to tour the trails.

Beautiful wild flowers and nature spots.

Typical of Michigan, there was a lot of water.

We spotted a swan couple in one of the ponds but couldn’t get a closer view.

The pathways were even and easy. Enjoyable. There was also a beach area, kayaks, paddle boards and boats you could rent. A great spot had we planned differently. I am sure the locals enjoy it.

Trails were pretty easy to follow, but not all that exciting.

I snapped a few images of interesting greenery.

The hike was fairly deserted. Most people were on the beach.

We checked into our next hotel and planned our Friday. I woke up and started working at 7 am and we took off at lunchtime to explore Lake Michigan area. Tiffani usually doesn’t like making the decisions, but I made her find something she wanted to see and we Google mapped our way there.

Along the way we stopped in a small historic town called Manistee. We were just driving by and decided to park and stretch our legs for a bit.

We took some steps to the river and walked the boardwalk.

Town was super quiet with a cute ice cream shop and a few restaurants.

We saw there was a lighthouse further along the alcove so we drove up to sneak a peak.

I snapped this photo from the car- those flowers!

Found this humorous. I mean someone must of recorded it eh?

The red chairs lined up were begging for a group to come and watch the sunset.

Tiff had googled and found this Giant record breaking Sequoia. We both love trees so thought it would be cool to check out. When we got there it was hilarious. Not even that big. We had to laugh.

We walked along a trail toward a ledge and were able to capture a better view of the sequoia’s height. Still nothing like the Redwoods. Not that we were expecting much. But seemed less than spectacular.

From the ledge was a view of Lake Michigan. We saw a few people down on the private beach and wondered how to get there. It was quite a steep drop off from where we stood.

We found the entrance after following a narrow trail. There was this handy rope to help you get up and down.

Standing here alone for 20 minutes soaking it all in was worth the tree sighting that got us here.

Tiff walked right into the frigid water and stood starring out at the very overcast view. The water up here is so clear. The rocks below beautifully colored and rounded.

Felt good to have my feet in the sand again.

And the narrow pathway down. I doubt many people know about this place.

We stopped in New Haven on the return back. They were hosting a Navy event.

We walked out to the water but decided not to stay.

We stayed at this castle hotel/apartment complex. Its a huge eyesore coming off the highway, but I loved how I could always find it. We rented a two bedroom which came in very handy once the twins and Ki joined us. We also had our own parking spots which was bonus.

Zoe and I checked out Michigan Moonshine for lunch on Saturday before heading to the reception. Unfortunately Tiffani caught a flu and was in bed for the next 24 hours, missing the wedding she drove so far to attend.

I got to see my Aunt Pam, Uncle Jim and Aunt Lotta who thankfully are all doing great and teaching us how to age gracefully.

Mother of the groom, my other sister Trish.

Was so happy to capture this photo of my little sister’s sons, their wives/significant others along with my girls all together! You never know when everyone will be in the same place again. I also love how the colors go from black, to pink, to navy as if lined up perfectly.

As the evening roared on so did the shenanigans. Zoe and Paige showing off their fun side.

Trisha joined in with the photo props. Ki was a great sport too.

The granddaughters. My mom and dad would’ve loved to have seen them all together. New beginnings are reason to celebrate, as well as closures.

Jefferson Memorial Forest, Scott’s Gap Loop Trail- Kentucky

The sun decided to make an appearance and we never quite know for how long that will be around here. So George and I made plans to go hiking Saturday to get outdoors and move our bodies a bit.

He picked the trail, a place I’d never been but only a 45 minute drive from his place. When we arrived the small parking lot was packed. I wondered if everyone had the same idea as us- but after finding a spot, we realized there was a trail race event going on.

Scott’s Gap Trail is a 3.3 mile loop considered moderate. Marked with orange ties to help the runners find their way.

On AllTrails you can review the route from an ariel view which I thought was pretty cool.

Most of the trails were one lane narrow paths which made it a bit difficult watching for runners coming up behind us. George was pretty good at looking back frequently and letting me know when to pull aside, but at one point in the middle of the loop I think we both were in our own zones of thought and I literally screamed out loud when a runner instantly appeared behind us.

We found out they were running a 31 mile trail race and on this part of the loop they were finishing up mile 20 something. I admired them. One runner commented that he tumbled down a hill at one point but there was only one way out so what choice did he have but to continue.

Reminds me of some other hikes I’ve been on where you really just want to find your car. Also made me remember Debbie volunteering to drag me out of the hike from hell since she knew I was too heavy for a piggy back ride. Honestly, what does one do if something should happen in the middle of a hike. Push those negative thoughts aside.

The dried fallen sticks and leaves mixed with the green moss and acorns covered the floor of most of this forest.

George snapped this photo once we reached the top of the first incline. It really was a pretty view from up there. I was exhausted and sweating just getting to this point. And we only just started.

My left knee was giving me some sharp pain on the inclines. George of course brought along his hiking sticks, which I always thought were for the elderly :) But he loaned them to me on the way up and what a difference they made! I had no idea how much pressure they took off your knees.

Once my body was warmed up, I passed them back to him. But good to know how they work. I honestly never understood them previously. Personally I don’t like having things in my hands, besides my cell phone.

George captured this photo of me looking down over the edge by this pregnant tree. I notice how goofy my camo jacket looked with my cool recycled leggings Sedona and Ki brought me back from Colorado. I put my hands on this tree’s growth.

Most of the woods was bare and bland contrasting beautifully with the blue skies. This was my first hike since October.

I did not dress right for the hike and took off my hoodie and tied it around my waist. Then kept taking on and off my coat and tying it also around my waist. Eventually my turtle neck scarf came up and alternated as a headband. I was not expecting the sun to create such heat so early in the year. Or maybe the inclines were giving me more of a workout than I figured I would be getting.

I teased later that next time, a first hike out, we should consider an easy route not moderate.

I made fun of George for bringing a back pack with water and snacks, since this was only a 3 mile hike. He said “let me do me”. And have to tell you, I was thankful for that water. Helps hanging around more intelligent hikers sometimes. Choose your partner wisely.

Most of the trails were along the top edges of the mountains. Falling down steeply on both sides.

I stopped frequently, to catch my breath, allowing George to wander ahead. Is a little embarrassing not being able to keep up, but then again, I never was one to push myself unless I had to.

A couple times I tried to snap a photo of the runners ahead of us to show the perspective in the woods. They all had water and some had hiking sticks as well. I wondered what they got from running so long in the woods. I suppose meeting a personal goal, certainly isn’t great for the body and no real money/reward at the end unless you’re great. When I mentioned this to George he said, there is never any reward for running. Made me think about why we do what we do.

After the hike we appropriately went to Noble Funk Brewery, where we were one year ago in February about this same time before I road tripped with Zoe across the country. Cheers to full circles and getting back out in the woods again.

Zoe gave me the idea of doing a bingo card for 2024- basically a grid of 5 rows and 5 column squares where we wrote what we wanted to accomplish this year. She said all of mine looked easy- but I liked setting achievable goals to what I wanted to do instead of pushing myself toward a goal I would give up on.

One of my squares was to hike 1 x per month. Here’s to one down and 11 to go.

Cali Trip Day 6- Wedding Rock, Fern Canyon, Prairie Creek Trail, Lighthouse Trail Trinidad

The place we were staying at recommended Cafe Brio in Arcata for breakfast and they were not wrong. Expensive a bit, but well worth it. A great way for us to start our hiking day.

It was filled with a few tourists and college students. Last night at the cidery Zoe was asked if she went to the college there. We had no idea this was a college town. Guess Polytech is pulling in the crowds.

The breakfast spot was on the corner of the town square.

We drove around the square and then headed toward our first destination. We only determined where to go while eating breakfast= Wedding Rock.

We googled mapped our way to the trailhead. It was well marked and easy to follow.

Was a bit chilly and overcast but still an amazing view.

We went up one side first and then headed down the other side to plant ourselves on the rocks.

When I hike inclines I am happy that I am still able. Makes me want to get out even more to explore while I still have my physical capabilities.

Looking down. Wishing I wasn’t afraid of heights.

Steps led down to the other side which revealed even better views.

The color combinations and sound were enough to make you realize what life is about. Sometimes when I hike at such beautiful places, I feel like I have been blessed to be witness to this.

Trying to stay warm and catch Zoe in my selfie as she climbed down.

If you look at the rocks to the left, it looks like a couple facing each other. Hence the name.

We sat here for quite awhile. Just sitting. Zoe videoing and using her old fashion digital camera.

We hiked another trail but it led to Mussel Rock which wasn’t as interesting. It was interesting that there were tsunami signs which reminded me of Thailand.

I snapped this photo as we exited so I could remember where we were.

We drove north and eventually were officially in the Redwoods National Park.

We pulled over at a beach which we could view from the trail we were just on.

The look of the sand was darkly colored and had a unique texture. Small shellfish carnage could be spotted everywhere.

Directly across the highway from this beach was a tiny community tucked away in the evergreens. Zoe kept feeling like she was in the Twilight movie.

I love travelling with someone who loves exploring and pit stopping to soak in a new view. We got back into our Big Blue SUV and set the map to Fern Canyon. I read great reviews of it on Tiktok, people claiming it as a “must see”.

The road to get there was super narrow and winding. Zoe was driving and I just looked out the window at the view instead of concerning myself if another car would come barreling our way.

I snapped a shot on Google maps upon arriving. Basically in the middle of nowhere and yet in the best place you could be surrounded by nature.

I mean seriously the history of nature. It must be fascinating to study.

Walking into the canyon you are surrounded by ferns.

Ferns lined the walls of the canyon as we puddle jumped our way deeper in.

Selfie. I stole her hat. I was thankful for the pullover Dale and Angela gave me one night when it got chilly on their back porch. It travelled all the way to Cali with me.

Zoe needs to invest in a pair of hiking boots, she wore her wool socks and tevas. But I understand other wardrobe choices would be her priority in LA with all the events she attends. I was happy her footwear sufficed.

Trying to recapture the moment from the tall trees. I even tried to jump and nearly peed my pants laughing. Zoe would show me my face’ which was in serious concentration to lift.

Another red mushroom. They are huge. Most we found were not whole like this one.

Other shrooms showing off softly among the sticky branches and cones.

With all the moisture in this area understandably it provided for the ferns and the fungi as well.

We hiked another trail after emerging from the canyon to the beach. It was one of the best spots we found. I could’ve sat there all day.

This beach was so long. And the pebbles sprinkled throughout could of kept me hunting for hours.

Again. Look at that! The clouds, the pines, the beach and water. God /The Creator is beyond our tiny human comprehension.

Love the combination with the grasses separating the woods and the sand.

We weren’t sure where to go to next. But decided to hike Prairie Trail, another recommendation from our Airbnb host in Arcata.

I snapped a photo of this upon arrival in case our phone maps no longer worked once we got inside the woods.

We saw you could hike to Fern Canyon from here – only 4.6 miles. But later when we saw the sign pointing to the direction to go, it came with huge warnings about not being easy and making sure you were equipped properly. Debbie and I could’ve used that warning in Yellow Springs.

The trail was perfect. Easy. Picturesque.

There were several streams and you could hear the running water as you hiked. Was wonderful.

Almost looks fake this shot. As if a painting.

Many had burn marks which we later read they had been hit by lightning. But it created such an added palette, their wounds.

I felt like I couldn’t capture the feeling and kept taking photos in hope of later remembering their presence.

It was about this point when I started to slow down.

You could literally camp inside the tree base.

The other trees in the forest were equally marvelous with their curly moss like branches and vivid yellow leaves. I wanted to be sure not to overlook them and their contribution.

I wondered if kids felt the same awe as we did as an adult exploring here or if they always feel small so being surrounded by massive trees seemed the same.

One more time. Captured. I should do a collage of her fun jumps.

After we crossed the road it was just a little bit further to a documented tree. We decided it was worth it as we had already come this far.

It didn’t seem so big to me. But when I backed up to try to capture it with Zoe in front, it was like a skyscraper.

Spotting a heart for Anne. She’s the one person who pointed out the hearts in nature. Always interesting what each person brings to your perspectives.

Often times you felt like you were in a movie and the trees set the mood.

It was like touching an elephant. The beauty and texture of the skin/bark.

As we exited the trail we again saw an Elk warning sign. I really wanted to see one. It’s sort of like the moose warning signs you see in Vermont, but you never see one.

We got back in the car and were getting hungry. Zoe found a small restaurant in Trinidad that served mashed potatoes in a waffle cone. So of course we aimed for that!

Along the way, I started screaming ” elk in the water, elk in the water”- and we spotted a elk finally in its natural habitat in a stream by the highway. Was really cool.

After eating we drove around Trinidad a bit, there was a lighthouse which was a landmark. We found the beach and then decided to hike the Lighthouse Trail. Mind you, when we decided to hike this trail I imagined it to be very short and not steep. I was pooped from an already full day of activity.

We hiked up and were able to capture this view.

The sun was starting to set and it was a really beautiful hike.

Took you through a lot of covered trailways like this one.

It was an incline which my legs were no so happy with. But I knew this was our last night up here.

Acknowledging this colorful rock star standing out among the mud.

At the top of the trail was this cross with a lot of history which I did not take the time to read.

A view as we declined of the town of Trinidad
below.

Then we finally arrived back at ground level with the buoys.

On our way back to Arcata, we stopped at a Vista Point and were able to see a little bit of the sun set and a lot of seals in the alcove.

Those speckles along the shore are seals.

We breathed it in one last time. The scallops of the sand added to the lines in the sky.

Someone needs to write a book about the sun setting for kids. Like Goodnight Moon. But for the sun.

So true. It’s only when you get out of your car and hike do you really get up close to the beauty that surrounds us.

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.

Long Point Trail with a curve ball of Fayetteville Trail- West Virginia

Sunday morning with the time change, I got an early start. I viewed waterfalls, sat on rocks watching rapids and even captured a few bridge viewpoints. It was only noon, so I decided a quick trail would be the perfect way to end the afternoon.

I looked on All Trails and found the Long Point Trail which said its an easy 3 mile hike.

I thought it would be a gentle walk in the woods. I wasn’t expecting the inclines.

I usually don’t like trails that are out and back, I always prefer a loop.

Level walkway maintained. I ran into the two women from the Castle Rock Trail ironically and they said “hey, its the girl with the skull shirt from yesterday :)” They encouraged me to go to the end, it was worth it.

It was like hiking back in Ohio. A lot of woods, nothing too different about the landscape.

I challenged myself to find some beauty and collected some leaves as I walked.

Took this photo for Debbie, Christmas in November. Anytime I see berries I think of her.

It was a quiet solo walk. I eventually would catch up with hikers heading back out but never passed anyone.

I felt a bit confused by this sign which became my nemesis later.

I spotted some fungi decorating a tree. Enjoyed the textures of the bark, dried leaves moss and mushrooms.

Interesting tree roots which I felt could inspire any scary movie.

The leaf covered path, the sound of my feet swooping them with every step.

Looking up at the admirable yellow hanging on.

I finally got to a ledge that showed our heights.

Gorgeous day. I sat up here for bit on the ledge while a group of younger guys sat off to the side eating their packed lunch. Check out the lines in this photo, the angles naturally met. Even the clouds were behaving and playing their part.

On my walk back I was drained. I imagine my face was bright red and I was dying for some water.

My feet were hurting and I was cursing my 200$ shoes which are a bit small. I thought they would break in eventually, but now I am not so sure.

Spotted this beauty who seemed like a flag of some sort among the trees.

I thought I spotted a short cut on the map so I wandered that way for another 20 minutes. A path less taken.

I took my leaves out of my pocket and laid them out to admire.

This trail was covered in pine needles and not a soul in site.

I exited the trail only to find out I was in the wrong parking area. I literally wanted to beg someone to drive me back to my spot. I was even tempted to ask if they had any water since I was parched. But I didn’t. Sometimes when you travel alone and don’t talk to anyone for awhile, its awkward to speak again. I find myself stumbling to be social.

I google mapped my way back to the correct trailhead. If I walked the street route it was going to take me 28 minutes but if I back tracked my way through the woods, it was only 23. This short cut added another hour onto my “easy” afternoon hike. I was determined to make it back to my car and hit a brewery immediately for an ice water and a beer!

The return walk definitely gave me time to wonder why we don’t follow our instincts more. I knew before I veered off that the way I was going was correct. Interesting to me, why we change directions and ignore our guts. A helpful reminder I must have needed.

Tunnel Trail- New River Gorge, West Virginia

After going to my car to grab some much needed water after my 3 hour hike, I decided to check out one more trail that was nearby. Not sure when I will get this way again. Trying hard not to feel obligated or rushed, but rather made the choice since I still felt there was energy left in my legs to endure another, hopefully easier, shorter, walk.