Finding the time to do the things I love can be challenging.  Most certainly during the school year, but even during summer vacation.  And ever I was diagnosed with RA (Arthritis is not just a disease of old age. Two-thirds of people with arthritis are under the age of 65, including 300,000 children.) two years ago – it’s been an uphill battle with walking, bending, cooking, sitting, sleeping, eating and pretty much doing any kind of normal function.  It broke my heart to have to give up some of the things I absolutely LOVE to do.  That’s why – on a good day – when I can – I strap my hiking shoes on, queue up my Playlist, lead up Harley and head out into the woods. Last week I was  finally able to get out on a walk with Big H.  He’s been cooped up for the better half of two years – except for the occasional walk around our local development and yard time (of course). Harley has been off leash trained since he was 6 months old and the beagle in him loves a good nature sniff. So, I loaded him into the car and headed off to trek around one of the local hiking trails in my neck of the woods.  If pups can experience pure BLISS – Harley sure was! Mentally – I always feel my best during a hike – but it was even more special to experience my first walk -in a long time -with him. I love how I just never know what we’re going to find. Every turn, bridge and path – leads to a new adventure that’s never the same the next time we trek out. An hour and half later – we had discovered a turkey nest, caught some grasshoppers, spotted a fawn and snapped some cool shots.   Was I sore by the end? ABSOLUTELY.  Did it wet my appetite to get out there a bit more often? You had better believe it! Was it worth it to see Harley smile – EVERY BIT !!!!

Are you like me ? Do you feel more at peace in the woods or are you more of a beach/city person?