Hike Swayback Bridge Trail - 11/14/2011

Hike: Yellow Trail, Swayback Bridge Trail of Legends, Mon., 08:45-10:50
Distance: 4 miles  Rating: 5.5/5
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: Mild temps (60s to low 70s); light breeze; partly to mostly cloudy.  Trails dry and in good shape.

Thoughts/Observations:

One of the best hikes I have had in a while.  I could "be still" and commune with GOD.  Reminded me of forest hikes of my youth.  Autumn canopy overhead and crisp carpet of leaves underfoot joined with the smell of Fall leaves to enrich my experience.  Words are woefully inadequate to express how I feel when I am worshiping GOD amidst HIS Creation.  HE made all of this for HIS glory and my enjoyment!  Pictures cannot convey the treasure that is found here. 

I spotted a whitetail doe (still had some spots) on the ridge line near the three mile mark.  She skidded to an abrupt halt about 15 yards away upon seeing me.  I remained still for several minutes observing her.  She even stomped her feet a few times to try to get me to move as she was unsure if I was something to be afraid of or not.  I finally moved a little and she scampered back down into the valley.  I literally chuckled to myself and her youthful exuberance.

It was such a joy and solace to be in the midst of YOUR creation today, LORD.  All praise and glory to YOUR name, my GOD! 

The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament shows His handiwork. 2 Day unto day utters speech, And night unto night reveals knowledge. 3 There is no speech nor language Where their voice is not heard.
                   -- Psalms 19:1-3 (NKJV)

Cherokee Ridge Hike - 11/12/2011

Hike: Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail, Sat., 11/12/2011, 09:00-11:40
Distance: 4 miles  Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Moderate due to the many ascent/descents and the tricky footing due to cover of dry pine straw
Conditions: Glorious day!  Bright and cheerful Autumn day.
Thoughts/Observations:

Hiking under a forest canopy of gold, green, and red with an azure blue sky.  When the breeze increased there would be shower of red and gold leaves.  Such a wonderful experience. 

Observed several small fly-catcher type birds.  They were dusty-blue and gray.  Their hyper-active antics were amusing to watch.  Suppose they were searching for insects among the lake-shore trees. 

Four to five sailboats peacefully plyed the waters as I hiked by the lake-shore.  My imagination was captured by them as long as they were in view -- still dreaming about sailing to hidden coves and islands. 

Thoughts about surrender and sacrifice today.  Prayed for my brother-in-law.

Beautiful Autumn Hike -- Mtn Creek 5-Nov-2011

Hike: Mountain Creek, Sat. Nov. 5, 2011; 09:00-11:10
Distance: 4.0 miles  Rating: 5/5
Difficulty:  Easy
Conditions: Perfect weather. Brilliant blue sky; moderate temps; light breeze.
Thoughts/Observations:

Encountered the three "attack wiener dogs" again!  This time they kept their distance.  Maybe they remembered my hiking staff! 

Trees appear to be just passed prime in their fall attire.  Some hickories have already dropped their leaves.  I hiked the trails on a carpet of brown and gold with flecks of red -- more beautiful than the grandest man-made structure.  Witnessed the occasional "sprinkle" of leaves - one of my favorite sights of the Fall.  Was a peaceful and worshipful time.  Prayed for several people and churches.  It doesn't get much better than Fall in the forest.  Thank YOU, GOD, for this wonder.