Inspirational Quote of the Day 3/26/2015

Gold Trail at Swayback

Hike: Gold Trail at Swayback, Friday, 3/13/2015, 09:45-12:00CDT

Distance: 4 miles  Rating: 4/5

Difficulty: Easy

Conditions: Cloudy.  Temps in upper 50s.  Wind blustery.  Trails very wet from continuing rains.

Thoughts/Observations:

Quick late morning hike ahead of the rain.  Enjoyed my trail time immensely.  Seeing the woodland violets in bloom brought a smile to my face -- this is one of my favorite flowers.  I was greeted to a fantastic display of the delicate purple flowers along the trail side at about the 3/4 point of the hike.  It was also a special treat to see a bluebird among the passerines busy about their bird-business.  Red Maples, Redbuds, and pears have started to bloom.  Spring is indeed on its way!  

Thoughts and Prayers for several of my fellow faith-family members who are sick or recovering from recent surgeries.  

Looking forward to services on Sunday.  We will be looking at "TBD"... from 1 John 3.

 

Deadening Trail Hike. 3/7/2015

 

Hike: Deadening Trail, Saturday, 3/7/2015, 08:50-12:00CDT

Distance: 4.0 miles  Rating: 4.5/5

Difficulty: Difficult.  Not for small children or dogs.  Several portions near drop-offs.  Considerable elevation changes.  Some scrambling.

Conditions: Mostly sunny.  Calm.  Warming up to low 60s.  Trail wet in spots.  Some water still dripping off rocks onto trail below.

Thoughts/Observations:  

Fantastic hike, though this trail is difficult.  Certainly gave me a work-out.  Spring is in the air.  Noticed Red Maples are beginning to bloom.  Passerines, crows, and vultures observed.  Enjoyed a rest at "the top of the world" overlooking the aquamarine Lake Martin.  

Good time of worship and introspection.  

Tried out my sketch book and pencils from my perch looking over the lake.  I am not an artist, but I do enjoy sketching some of the landscapes.

Ramblr Link for my hike!

Tried out the BK7/BK14 combo sheath.  Seems to wear well.  BK7 is easily deployed from this rig.  The BK14 is not as easily deployed.  I do like the dangler which drops the knife lower on my side.  The sheath does tend to strike the lower leg if you are involved in scrambling.

Quote of the Day

To conquer oneself is the best and noblest victory; to be vanquished by one's own nature is the worst and most ignoble defeat.
  ~Plato

Cloudy & Cold Day at Work

Temps falling from low 50s to upper 30s throughout the day. Light to misty rain added to the brisk NW wind to make for a raw, late winter day. Makes me yearn more for the sunshine and warmth of spring. Even the heat and humidity of summer would be welcome. 

Needless to say, I am not made for harsh winter conditions. I have immense respect for those who survive and thrive in the cold, wet winters of the north.