If I could, I would...hike.
So what's the blog name about? Aside from the fact that "Lost in the woods" was taken, it really means I am intentionally setting out to get lost doing all the things that fill in the blank of "If I could, I would _____." Because the only person stopping me is me.
If I could, I would
My hiking is not extraordinary hiking by comparison to anyone else. There are no grandiose mileage goals or peaks I've claimed. I hike my own hike. What is it they say? It's not the destination but the journey? Yep, that.
A coworker was regaling me with stories of hiking with family, spouses and children and in-laws, of shelters along the Appalachian Trail, and of backpacking. Listening to the stories sparked something. I wanted to get back out there.
Sunday mornings start with a hike at the local state park. This is the new norm I adopted. Sunrise in the woods is glorious, in all seasons. There is a 3ish mile lake and wilderness loop that is the perfect blend of challenge and serenity. This short weekly loop is what picked me up from my McCoy Hollow day-hike saga and turned me into a bonafide novice hiker/backpacker. I was determined to return to the same trail with a couple goals in mind.
If I could, I would
- be curious.
- get disconnected.
- spend more time surrounded by nature.
- be a better steward of my health and wellness.
- be filled with gratitude and mindfulness.
- listen more and worry less.
- embrace solitude.
- just wander.
My hiking is not extraordinary hiking by comparison to anyone else. There are no grandiose mileage goals or peaks I've claimed. I hike my own hike. What is it they say? It's not the destination but the journey? Yep, that.
A coworker was regaling me with stories of hiking with family, spouses and children and in-laws, of shelters along the Appalachian Trail, and of backpacking. Listening to the stories sparked something. I wanted to get back out there.
Sunday mornings start with a hike at the local state park. This is the new norm I adopted. Sunrise in the woods is glorious, in all seasons. There is a 3ish mile lake and wilderness loop that is the perfect blend of challenge and serenity. This short weekly loop is what picked me up from my McCoy Hollow day-hike saga and turned me into a bonafide novice hiker/backpacker. I was determined to return to the same trail with a couple goals in mind.
- Solo backpacking and camping in McCoy Hollow...there was a score that needed settling.
- Future solo section hike along the Appalachian Trail (Note to self, must find the JR badge.)
So I bought some new boots, devoured hiking blogs and youtube channels, watched all the scary hiker movies with the kids, generally convinced all my friends I was going thru a midlife crisis, and set about planning. Next time would be better.
Yours,
Chicken
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