Playing in the Outdoors

I went hiking last week for the first time this summer, and it was long overdue. Between the hot, humid weather and social obligations we hadn’t been able to find any time or desire to go. But last week we decided it was a needed activity despite the heat and traveled up to Bash-Bish falls. The thought of the cool water at the end and the sight of the falls seemed called to us!

To those who do not know I am not the most inshape, athletic, graceful, or flexible of people. This did impact my hike a bit as the short hike had a bit of an incline, which did not slow down my husband or step sons, but caused me to be a bit of a straggler and had my calves screaming at me to reconsider this insanity. But I persisted--and made a pact with my calves that in the future I would work at stretching and strengthening them if they would just quiet down and let me get on with my hike.

The falls were beautiful and definitely worth the short hike! We noticed than in order to get anywhere near the water we had to climb down over rocks and boulders. As I said I am not graceful or flexible, so my husband was a bit concerned about me climbing down. So I decided to stay at the path and he and the boys climbed down.

As I sat there I thought about how I was tired and frustrated that my lack of healthy living was interrupting some fun and adventure in my life. So while they were just reaching the bottom, I scooted on my butt down some of the rocks, and very carefully stepped and climbed my way down. I finally made it to a big hug from my husband.

The cold water was heavenly as we found a little knee deep area we could walk around a bit in and splash on our bodies to revive ourselves. We sat there and enjoyed the coolness and the nature for quite awhile.

Instead of taking the path back to the car, we walked down through the river enjoying the surroundings. It was a beautiful and cool hike and a great decision. We made it back to the car without incident, which is surprising considering my lack of grace and the abundance of moss on some of the rocks.

Sometimes I get so caught up in managing life that I forget to play. This was a great way to play and a great reminder of why. I felt great mentally and physically afterwards and had a great day with my husband and step sons. What could be better?