C.O.M.E. #7 Gulf State Park / Bon Secour NWR

Hike: Pine Beach Trail, Bon Secour NWR, Saturday, 8/16/2008 11:30-13:30
Distance: 4 miles advertised (more like 3.5)
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: Cloudy, occasional sprinkles, warm, muggy, breezy
Thoughts/Observations:
C.O.M.E. #7 Gulf State Park / Bon Secour NWR. Glenn, Emily, Jonny, Martha, Nathan, April, Sabrina, and me on this expedition. Em, Nate, April, & Sabrina stayed at the beach pavilion while the rest of us drove to Bon Secour (9 miles) for hiking on the Pine Beach Trail. The cloud cover and occasional sprinkle made the heat and humidity factor comfortable. I had never hiked in a salt marsh or high dune area before and this was a special experience.

Observed an Osprey, Great Blue Heron, numerous small crabs and fish, many, many shore birds. Saw quite a few burrows in the dunes but did not see a beach mouse. Being elusive, we did not observe any alligators either. Even though you know the Gulf is ahead, one is not adequately prepared for the panoramic vista that unfolds before you when you clear the high dunes and see the beach!

LORD, this is such a special place. Thank YOU for making it and for allowing me to share it with those that are so special to me.

Break in the Heat - Early August Hike

Hike: Mountain Creek, 08/09/2008, 07:30-11:00
Distance: 5.1 miles
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: Sunny; High 60's; low dewpoint; light breeze. Warming up, but almost fall-like.
Thoughts/Observations:
Very good hike. First time in a long while that I was not hurried or had other things pressing me -- I am not on call this weekend and there is nothing planned at church or with family today. Thank YOU, FATHER, for this time of peace and reflection. Gorgeous red headed woodpecker in the pine upland area -- vividly contrasted against the bright blue sky and stone gray dead tree. Many birds about. Velvet ants and cicada observed.

I thought a lot about our Great Western Expedition in June-2009, about late Fall trip to Phoenix, and about our upcoming Expedition to Gulf State Park. Work in all of these, LORD.

Tallapoosa Kayak Hike

Hike: Kayak Exploration - Tallapoosa River near Ft. Toulouse, Wetumpka, AL, 8/2/2008, 09:30-12:00
Distance: 4 miles (estimate)
Rating: 5/5
Conditions: Mostly sunny. Very hot and muggy. Clouds gathered around midday but no rain.
Difficulty: Easy (Except that heat was bothersome)
Thoughts/Observations:
Launched from Ft. Toulouse boat ramp. Nice exploration of Tallapoosa River around the National Historic Site. Lots of back waters, islands, and sloughs. Many herons and egrets. Saw hawk diving for fish! Some small sand pipers along the beach. Explored one island beach on foot. Very hot today - almost got too hot (tshirt was drenched with sweat). Guess I should have taken a dip in the river! Kayak makes it possible to get close to wildlife and explore shallow areas. Photographed whitetail deer coming from National Historic Site area. She swam the Tallapoosa River to other side! Thank YOU, LORD, for this special time and place.

Coldwater Creek - C.O.M.E. #6

Expedition #6: Canoe/Kayak Big Coldwater Creek, Milton, FL, 7/26/2008, 10:30-14:00
Conditions: Sunny, very h-o-t, humid. Typical sub-tropical summer in FL panhandle. Gauge height about 3.5ft. Good river conditions - level fine for canoes and kayaks. Two tree-falls encountered with restricted passage area - no portages required. Bottom of creek is largely small gravel with some areas of sand. Many gravel and sandy banks or bars to stop and recreate.
Trail Distance: 7 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Rating: 4/5 (due to number of tubes from MM 3 to 7 that made the creek crowded in places)
Thoughts/Observations:
Expedition #6: 22 people (14 kayaks and 2 canoes) departed the church at 6:15am! We made great time - GOD blessed us and we were on the creek a little after 10:00am. We had a successful launch of all boats - no wrecks or roll-overs here.

First three miles of Coldwater Creek was mostly just us and Coldwater Creek's riparian environment. To me this section of the creek may be the best and was over too quick.

We encountered lots of tubers on the Creek as expected after Mile 3. Jonny & I swept. There were several congested areas but also areas of solitude. Thank YOU for such a place to appreciate YOUR creation. It was so great to share this experience with people I love.

Little viewable wildlife on this trip(I'm sure due to the volume of people and noise.). Water level was high enough to make paddling easy for the kayaks. Nicole, Savannah, & Ashton (our youngest adventurers) all enjoyed the trip! I believe a great time of fellowship and fun was had by all. Maybe we can do this again some time as an overnighter?

Alabama Nature Center - 7/19/2008

Hike: Alabama Wildlife Federation Nature Center, Millbrook, AL 7/19/2008, 08:30-11:30
Distance: 5.8 miles
Rating: 4/5 (Due to heat, humidity, and gobs of gnats!)
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: Hot, humid, hazy.
Thoughts/Observations:
Hot and muggy - typical for summer in Alabama. Several birds: jays, cardinals, flycatchers - one quite vocal hawk! Plenty of frogs in the streams. Several beautiful butterflies observed in the Turkey Ridge area. A gracious plenty spider webs across the trails (not my favorite thing). Almost no one else on the trails - a few people fishing at the main pond. A great time of peace and solitude. My overriding thought was "Speak to my heart, LORD JESUS."

Suburban Trail # 001 - Hiking on Concrete

Hike: Home to Main Street (Thames-Jay-Sheila-Main-Return), 7/8/2008 19:30-20:15
Distance: 2 miles
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: Partly cloudy; humid; comfortable temperature. Light winds.
Thoughts/Observations:
Nice walk. Area is recovering from tornado damage of 2/2008. Sunset reflecting off clouds and a crescent moon - beautiful and peaceful scene. Prattville seems very peaceful this evening.
Thank YOU LORD for YOUR many blessings.

Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve Hike

Hike: Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve, Auburn, AL Saturday, 7/5/2008 10:00-13:15
Distance: 4.4 miles
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: Sunny to Partly Cloudy. Humid/hot. A few sprinkles near end of hike. Thunder in the distance.
Thoughts/Observations:
Got a later start than I had planned. almost did not go because of the distance, time, and gas cost - glad I did though! (And that's so often how YOU work, LORD.) This is a great place. Lots of thought and hard work to make it informative and fun. The few structures that are present are the typical engineering statements I've come to expect from Preserves and parks associated with Auburn Univ. The structures added to the experience and were impressive in their own right. They also fit into the nature scape quite nicely.

Many lizards, birds, butterflies, and bees observed; some squirrels. I'm sure more reclusive mammals are present - just not readily seen during the middle of the day! I could see numerous fish and tadpoles at Hidden Falls hole. I was treated to the song of some amorous frogs at the small pond in the center of the preserve. Dragonflies and Damselflies were in great abundance.

Trails were well maintained and adequately marked. This is not a large preserve (110 acres) but there are many trails and one can easily do 3 to 4 miles by combining trails. Little to no elevation gain makes the hikes easy. There is even a compass challenge course of about 1.2 miles (I didn't find it until late and did not have time to complete it.).

Thank YOU for this special place, LORD. Thank YOU for the treasure of the "Hidden Falls". I've included a video of it!

Mountain Creek June Hike

Hike: Mountain Creek, 6/14/2008, 06:45-09:00
Distance: 4 miles (approx.)
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: Mostly cloudy to mostly sunny. High 70's. Humid. Thunder in the distance.
Thoughts/Observations:
Soft, delicate sounds this morning. Stillness and peacefulness in the forest. In pine upland area, some type of Oriole, black head, khaki breast turning to copper as it moved to wings. Gray squirrel, cottontail, cardinals, crows, bream, & big tadpoles.

Turned partly sunny for a while, but it is amazing how fast it can get cloudy!

In pine upland came within 20 yards of large doe. I could even hear her snort as she ran off.

Thank YOU, LORD, for this peaceful experience in YOUR forest. Please bless the mission outreach as we surrender it all to YOU. Be honored and glorified. Draw people to YOURSELF.

Chinnabee Silent Trail - June Hike

Hike: Chinnabee Silent Trail, Cheaha Wilderness, Talladega National Forest, Mon. 6/9/2008 10:15-15:30
Distance: 7.4 miles
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Conditions: Hot, humid (normal for the South). Mostly sunny. Very light breeze to still.
Thoughts/Observations:

Hiked with Glenn. Traveled 94 miles from Prattville to trailhead on AL281. Got on trail at 10:15. Hiked to Lake Chinnabee, where we snacked and rested up. Retraced our steps, arriving back at trailhead about 15:30.

We got tired and hot by the return side of the hike but Cheaha Falls was quite refreshing! Not quite as cold as Blue Springs, but it will rapidly cool you off. It was very much appreciated on this hot afternoon. The falls refreshed our spirits and bodies. It was certainly a GOD send.

Scenery was spectacular - what else would you expect from Alabama's highest point. There were many wildflowers still in bloom (this was a surprise to me) and the Oakleaf hydrangea was showing off everywhere. A couple of great vistas greeted us on this hike. Most pleasing and enjoyable of the scenery was probably at Cheaha Falls and Cheaha Creek. The area around Devil's Den reminded me of scenery one would expect to see in an Indiana Jones movie - complete with wooden bridge. "Hike Alabma" describes the Chinnabee Silent Trail as one of the most beautiful hikes in the state - I believe him.

Many lizards and butterflies observed. Lots of birds (as expected). Saw no mammals (unless you count the few humans at Cheaha Falls and Lake Chinnabee).

I ran out of water with 1.2 miles to go in the hike - reminder to self to take minimum of 2L of water on summer hikes!

Thank YOU, LORD, for this great time and place. Focus my spirit and mind on YOU every day!

National Trail Day - Kayak Autauga Creek

Kayak: Autauga Creek, Prattville, AL 6/7/2008 18:30-20:00 From Downtown to US82 Bridge
Distance: ~ 2 miles (rough estimate)
Rating: 4/5 (due to technicality and failing light)
Difficulty: Very difficult - technical due to numerous snags, brushpiles, blockages and shallows. Had to portage several times. One log and brush jam before US82 bridge was very bad, just one small place to scoot through!
Conditions: Hot and humid. Ran out of daylight! Had planned to take out on County Road 4 but coming darkness forced me out early at Hwy 82 bridge.
Thoughts/Observations:
A lot more difficult than I expected. Numerous snags, log and brush jams, and shallow areas made this very (technically) challenging for me. I was about as wet from sweat as from water by the time I finished the route. Somehow lost my sunglasses during the trip (probably during one of the portages).
Observed several herons and ducks. Scenery was pleasant, but I did not get to admire it much as I was busy navigating snags, logs, and jams.
Thank YOU, LORD, for this challenge and for getting me through this "new thing". Teach me YOUR will and way, that I may shepherd YOUR people at Crestview.

National Trail Day - Hike at Mountain Creek

Hike: Mountain Creek, 6/7/2008, 08:30-10:30
Distance: 4 miles
Rating: 4/5 (Due to heat/humidity and equipment trouble)
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: Extremely hot and humid - much more like August than June.
Thoughts/Observations:
Extremely hot and humid today - even for the South. Serenaded by wonderful bird songs near the creek. I had to stop for a little while and just listen. More beautiful than any orchestra concert!

"HE is the treasure and We are the vessels" kept going through my head. Please speak to my heart, LORD.

Binoculars strap came loose near the beginning of hike and got sand on my binocs. Carefully cleaned them off - didn't see any scratches.

Inaguration of Alabama River Trail

Hike: Kayaking around Cooter's Pond and Alabama River 06/06/2008, 11:30-13:00
Distance: ~ 2 miles
Rating: 4/5
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: Very hot (even for the South during the summer) and humid. Got a little sunburned on my arms even though I had on SPF30 Sunscreen!
Thoughts/Observations:
Inauguration of the Alabama River Canoe Trail that goes from Ga state line to the Mobile Delta! Great time on the water, but extremely hot. I got a little sunburned on my arms even with sunscreen. Numerous herons and egrets; turtles, and fish. Many powerboats but I did not see the canoes/kayaks that were to be coming from Montgomery. Guess they came after I left.

Mountain Creek 2008-05-24

Hike: Mountain Creek, 05/24/2008 10:00-12:00
Distance: 4 miles
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: Partly cloudy, very warm, humid; mild breeze.
Thoughts/Observations:
Wonderful hike. Observed grey squirrel, several hawks, numerous birds (various kinds), large tadpoles at the reservoir, bass, large black ants, velvet ants, smelled a skunk (didn't see him, thankfully!), and a gorgeous tiger swallowtail butterfly. I continue to find trees and bushes that I'm not familiar with (even as many times as I have been to this park). There is a treasure trove of flora and fauna here. Thank YOU, LORD, for speaking to my heart today. Message for tomorrow is "Listen Up!" from John 3. "Open my eyes that I may see visions of love YOU have for me." I love YOU, LORD.

Oak Mountain State Park Hike

Hike: Oak Mountain State Park, Mon., 5/19/2008 10:00-15:00
Distance: 9 miles
Rating: 4/5
Difficulty: Very Difficult
Conditions: Mostly sunny, low to mid 80's. Solo hike (Glenn had training today).
Thoughts/Observations:
Went to the Wildlife Rehab Center; hiked the Treetop Nature Trail out and back; and hiked Peavine Falls Trail (Green Trail) all the way to the bottom of the falls and back out. This was probably the hardest hike I've done to date. I was physically exhausted at the end. Drank 1.5L of water on the trail and ate 1 protein bar. After hike drank cold Tropicana Lemonade from vending machine at Park HQ and got a large Coke from McDonalds in Clanton on way back. Lots of birds, lizards, and insects. Peavine Falls was outstanding, but it was a very difficult trail down to the bottom of the falls and then a little bit of rock climbing to get out! These trails require lots of physical energy - up and down and some of the elevations gains are acute! A definite physical workout. Don't believe I got much of a spiritual workout on this one though. LORD, help me to keep focused on YOU always, in everything I do. Thank YOU for showing me these sights and getting me through the very difficult areas. Took lots of pics.

Wilderness Park Prattville

Hike: Wilderness Park, Prattville, AL 05/18/2008 15:30-16:00
Distance: 0.5 miles
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: Sunny, warm to very warm.
Thoughts/Observations:
Hike before evening church with Glenn. The huge bamboo is still a sight to see. One large bamboo stalk had broken off and was full of water, just like Bear Grills demonstrated the other night. It was amazing to see it in actual practice. Unfortunately, I did not have my camera with me.

Another Mountain Creek Hike

Hike: Mountain Creek, AL, Sat-05/10/2008 09:00-11:00CDT
Distance: approx 4 miles
Rating: 5/5 (Just about always at this site)
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: Cloudy; mild temps (upper 70's) - moderate humidity. Still to light breeze. No one else on trails.
Thoughts/Observations:
Saw a coyote, 2 cottontails, and numerous pasarines. I was greeted with a beautiful concert of bird songs and the sweet fragrance of honeysuckle today. Thank YOU, LORD, for the beautiful peace that YOU provide for me -- the tranquility that I experience here is profound. I certainly need it.
Please give me YOUR words to speak and teach -- help me shepherd YOUR people at Crestview. Thank YOU for YOUR love and for this place!

Rainy Restful Saturday Morning

Sitting here in my great room with Soundscapes playing and watching the rain through the front storm door is quite relaxing. I had planned to go hiking this morning or to take Kathy to the Alabama Wildlife Nature Center at Lanark for their Birding Weekend – but that is not to be. Instead I am here in the restful quiet of the house (Kathy is still asleep) – just Gracie, Buttons, and me.

I was able to complete the powerpoints for both morning and evening sermons for tomorrow along with the Kids with The KING message. I even managed to complete the eTrailGuide powerpoint!

LORD, thank YOU for YOUR peace and stillness. I need that in my life, so much more so today. The demands of family, job, and ministry are wearing heavily on me of late. I pray for YOUR strength, wisdom, and peace.

The soothing sounds and thoughts gently wash over me this morning. Thank YOU, LORD.

Spring Hike - Mountain Creek

Hike: Mountain Creek, 4/26/2008 09:00-11:00
Distance: 4 miles
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: Cloudy, low to mid 70's, very light to no breeze. Some "bugs" beginning to show up. Insect repellent will be needed before to much longer.
Thoughts/Observations: Enjoyable hike. I missed the Wisteria bloom this year. All hardwoods have leaves out now - even the Hickories. Many birds today; pasarines, crows, and hawks. Several lizards, but no snakes observed. Azaleas and some wildflowers still in bloom. Sermon topic for tomorrow: "What's So Great about Christianity?" Thank YOU for YOUR presence in my life, LORD.

AWF Nature Center Lanark

Hike: AWF Nature Center Lanark, Millbrook, AL 04/19/2008, 09:18-12:08
Distance: 6 miles
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: Breezy; Gorgeous sunshine! Feels like low to mid 70's. A small crowd at the Pavilion for the plant show. A few folks on the trails, but not many.
Thoughts/Observations:
First time I've seen water in Gum Pond. Was wonderful to see. Thank YOU, LORD, for sending YOUR healing rain.
Many birds about - Cardinals, Bluebirds, and 1 hawk
I very much needed this 1/2 day away and on-the-trail; demands on my life have been weighty the last few weeks. Thank YOU, LORD GOD, for being "my help in ages past, my hope for years to come".

The Deadening Trail - Cherokee Ridge

Hike: The Deadening Trail at Cherokee Ridge, 3/29/2008, 09:00-11:30
Loc: N 32 42.448' // W 85 53.170' (Parking lot)
Distance: approximately 4 miles
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Strenuous
Conditions: Mostly clear, very warm (getting up to 80 today). Calm winds.
Thoughts/Observations:
Great workout. Trail about kicked my behind today. Lots of birds out and singing. Observed at least three different species of lizards on rocks, trees, and in leaf litter. Did not go through Eye of the Needle today.

Speak to my heart, O GOD. Give me the words YOU would have me speak.

C.O.M.E. #5 Providence Canyon Backcountry Expedition

Hike: Providence Canyon GA State Park, 3/14-15/2008, Backcountry expedition; Loop, Backcountry, and Canyon (1-3) Trails
Distance: Approximately 4.0 on 3/14 and 6.0 on 3/15
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Conditions: Warm and partly cloudy on 3/14. Misty rain about 03:00 on 3/15 but clear, sunny, and very warm after 09:30. Backcountry campsites and trails were well maintained and marked.
Thoughts/Observations:
Backcountry expedition with Jim, Melissa, Morgan, Chelsea, Martha, Nathan, Jon, & Emily. Wonderful experience. We almost didn't go because of weather reports, but GOD answered our prayers and protected us from bad weather and traffic. GOD spoke to our hearts, HIS creation was shining, and the fellowship was beautiful. This is a unique and quite beautiful area. The packs were heavy but the experience was enjoyable. Would certainly do it again! Glenn couldn't join us because he was sick. Hopefully he will be able to see it later. Devotion on Fri night from Psalm 19, 16, and 104. Emily brought devotion on Sat morning from Psalm 121:8!

My Goal for 2009 - YELLOWSTONE!

One of my goals for 2009 is an Expedition to YELLOWSTONE, YOSEMITE, and SEQUOIA National Parks in GOD's grace and time!!!
Let the Planning and Anticipation begin!
YELLOWSTONE
YOSEMITE
SEQUOIA

No Hiking Today - Involved in Tornado Relief

I thought the sun was supposed to be out today, but the clouds were thick and gray. A cold dampness hung in the air. I was encouraged though when I saw how many people had already gathered at the Volunteer Reception Center after 8:00am. In spite of the cool and damp day, hearts and spirits were bright and warm.

There is still a considerable amount of cleanup to be done, but the results are already impressive. It is wonderful to see so many people willing to help their neighbor - the Biblical definition of a neighbor!

The house I worked at today (411 Sheila Blvd) was a total loss. The roof had been largely blown off and the contents of the home was soaking wet. We removed all of the furniture (that was possibly any good) and loaded them onto trailers and trucks. It was a sobering experience to help people pack up what was left of their belongings and to see how quickly "stuff" can be taken away. It is also true that situations such as this demonstrate vividly how important relationships are especially compared to the accumulation of material possessions.

C.O.M.E. #4.1 - Total Lunar Eclipse

Adventure: Viewing of Total Lunar Eclipse 2/20/2008 20:00-22:00
Location: South field of Church Campus
Conditions: Clear to Partly Cloudy. Clouds cleared out completely during the total phase of the eclipse!
Thoughts/Observations:
GOD blessed us with clear skies during the total eclipse time! We had
a perfect view from the field on the south side of the church campus.
While the moon did not display the turquoise color NASA had speculated
might be seen, the warm red glow covered our nearest celestial
neighbor in this beautiful astronomical event. GOD orders the path
and timing of all celestial objects and this is a wondrous example of
HIS power and beauty.

It was great to have Emily, Jonny, Martha, Nathan, Jim, ConnieT, and
Kathy join me on this Expedition 4.1.

All of the images captured of this event are in our minds - none of
our digital photos would do the event justice!

C.O.M.E. #4 Moundville Archaeological Park

Hike: Moundville Archaeological Park, 2/16/2008, 10:30-13:30
Distance: 4 miles (credit - probably not truly that many miles)
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: Partly cloudy to Mostly cloudy at times. 50's to high 60's. Light breeze.
Thoughts/Observations:
C.O.M.E. #4: Kathy, Glenn, Emily, Jonny, Robert, Nathan, Morgan, Nicole, and myself. Great time on Nature Trail, climbing Chief's Ceremonial Mound, Indian Village, picnic beside the Black Warrior River, skipping stones on the river, Bible devotional together, and just hanging out. Cole-Cole said this was the best hike she had ever been on (it's the first hike she's ever been on!) Weather really cooperated. This was a very nice time of fellowship and appreciation of GOD's Creation. Hope everyone enjoyed the trip as much as I did.

Quick Hike at Mountain Creek

Hike: Mountain Creek, 02/09/2008, 08:00-10:00
Distance: 4.11 miles
Rating: 5/5
Conditions: Sunny. Low 50's to 60. Light to Moderate NW breeze.
Thoughts/Observations:
Avg Speed=1.8mph Moving Avg Speed=2.5mph (Yes, I took the GPS on this hike!)
Hiking before appointment at Church to conduct Jenny Blackmon's wedding. Absolutely gorgeous day! Saw cottontail rabbit and several birds. Scared up deer in pine upland area. Thank YOU, LORD, for this place and this time. These times in YOUR Creation, out hiking, are so special. Thank YOU for communing with me!

Mountain Creek - Gracie Hike

Hike: Mountain Creek, 02/02/2008, 10:00-11:30, Confederate Memorial Park
Distance: 3 miles
Rating: 4/5
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: Mostly sunny, mild (low to upper 50's), no breeze.
Observations/Thoughts:
Took Gracie on this hike. She was excited, as usual. Did not see much wildlife on this hike - not sure why. Perhaps we got too late a start or maybe Gracie made too much noise with her scratching in the leaves. Not even many birds about today.
Sermon topic for tomorrow is "Trails of Life" (Prov. 4). Please give me YOUR words, LORD.

C.O.M.E. #3 - Mountain Creek & SNOW!!!

Hike: Confederate Memorial Park, Mountain Creek, January.19.2008, C.O.M.E. #3, 09:15-11:15
Distance: 4 miles (credit - probably not quite that much - stopped lots for pictures)
Rating: 5/5 (that's as high as I can give... was probably a 6 at least!)
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: SNOWING! About 1-3 inches of accumulation in the park. Temps hovering in mid to low 30's. A few other "hardy souls" were in the park admiring GOD's handiwork.
Thoughts/Observations:
Expedition #3 was scheduled for Lanark in Millbrook but they were closed for weather. GOD, YOU had this all worked out though. Mountain Creek received a much better snowfall than Prattville or Millbrook. To say that the area was beautiful would not adequately describe it. The tranquility, peace, quietness, softness, and pristine beauty of the snow blanketed forest is something you must appreciate for yourself. Emily, Jonny, Martha, & Nathan joined me for this Expedition. This was one of those life-memory-making events. Message for tomorrow morning is "Snow & Frost" from Psalm 147. I love YOU, LORD.

Mountain Creek Hike

Hike: Mountain Creek 1/12/2008 09:15-11:00
Distance: ~4 miles
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: Sunny. High cirrus clouds, cool temps.
Thoughts/Observations: Many birds audible today. Beautiful small woodpecker - Hairy or Downy, sometimes confuse them - need to consult Field Guide. Psalm 121 really spoke to my heart today. I asked YOU to confirm YOUR call in this area of ministry to me. I believe Psalm 121 was YOUR answer! Thank YOU LORD.

Icicles on the Trail!

Hike: Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail - South Loop, 1/5/2008, 09:00-11:00
Distance: 3+ miles
Rating: 4/5
Difficulty: Moderate
Conditions: Cool. Temps high 30's to 50's. Light breeze. Sunny. All leaves and some pine needles down. Trails covered by leaves in many spots making footing difficult at times.
Thoughts/Observations: Cool but comfortable hike. Not much wildlife observed today. Very nice icicles on one of the boulders.
I love YOU, LORD, with all that I am. Please forgive my sins. Speak to my heart.

Lanark - AL Wildlife Federation

Hike: AL Wildlife Federation Nature Center, Lanark, 12/15/2007, 08:15-10:00
Distance: 4.0 miles
Rating: 4/5
Conditions: Cloudy, light to moderate sporadic rain, mild temps.
Difficulty: Easy
Thoughts/Observations: Cut hike short to attend Ladies III S/S Christmas luncheon. Not many people on trail today - clouds and rain. I really enjoy the rain while out on the trail! Thank YOU for it LORD. My Tilley (TH4) hat sheds rain great. Poncho keeps me comfortable when the rain gets heavier. Also wore nylon shirt and pants. Birds and squirrels stirring this morning.

C.O.M.E. #2 Walls of Jericho

Hike: Crestview Outdoor Ministry Expedition #2, 12/8/2007, 11:00-17:00, Walls of Jericho
Distance: 7.0 miles
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Conditions: Fog, low clouds all day, mild temps. On/Off light showers earlier.
Thoughts/Observations: C.O.M.E. #2 total of 7 people. Wonderful time of Fellowship, Devotional time, and appreciation of GOD and HIS Creation. Loads of pics. Water level lower than it was Monday. Completed the hike just at sunset.

Reconnoiter Walls of Jericho

Hike: Walls of Jericho, Hytop, AL 12/3/2007, 12:00-15:30
Distance: 7 miles
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Moderate
Conditions: Cool (40's), breezy, mostly clear
Thoughts/Observations: Reconnoiter for C.O.M.E. Hike on 12/8/2007. Gorgeous area. High walls, waterfalls. Saw 2 does on hike in. They couldn't decide whether to run from me or check me out! Thank YOU, LORD, for bringing me to this place and for YOUR messages to my spirit. Help me not be anxious about anything but wholly trust in YOU.

Ft. Toulouse National Historic Site Hike

Hike: Ft. Toulouse, Wetumpka, AL 11/28/2007 09:30-12:00
Distance: ~ 4 miles
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: Sunny, mild, light breeze. Beautiful day.
Thoughts/Observations:
Haven't hiked here in a while. Nice to get back. Trails are open now that cooler temps prevail. Many birds abound. Several grey squirrels. River level of Tallapoosa and Coosa still several feet below normal. The confluence of the rivers is visibly different due to the drought. Noticed three cypress trees coming up near the confluence.

Woodpecker in the bog garden area - red cap on back of head, white stripes across back, breast white, long beak, ~ size of robin.

Small tree (bush) ~ 20' tall, single to multiple trunk, smooth light colored bark, leaves alternate and oval, bright red berries in clusters of 2-3.

Thank YOU LORD, for this beautiful area and for the blessing of life. Thank YOU for these 'simple pleasures'.

Traildog!

Hike: Mountain Creek, AL 11/23/2007, 12:00-13:45 Hiking with Gracie!
Distance: 3 miles
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Easy (at least for me) Looked to be easy for Gracie too.
Conditions: Very cool, clear, light breeze.
Thoughts: Gracie's first hike! She did extremely well. Used the long (25') leash. Gracie experienced a plethora of smells, sights, and sounds. I was very pleased with her demeanor around another dog and a couple. Maybe she's going to be a "Traildog"!

Fall Hiking at Mountain Creek 11/21/2007

Hike: Mountain Creek, AL 11/21/2007, 09:15-11:45
Distance: 4 miles
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: Cool, light to moderate breeze, cloudy and then clearing.
Thoughts: Flock of Robins in tall cedar tree behind church as I was going in to the trail. Thought I also saw a cedar waxwing. Most of leaves on the ground n ow. Tree behind the hickories on the back trail is a sourwood, I think. It has red leaves and the characteristic lean. Bark is rough. Some small "flowerettes"? or similar at end of some of the stems.

Alabama Nature Center - Birding Seminar Too

Hike: Alabama Nature Center, Millbrook, AL 11/17/2007, 08:00-11:30
Conditions: Cool (mid to upper 30's to 40's), sunny, almost no breeze.
Distance: 4.0 miles
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Easy
Thoughts: Attended the beginning Birder Seminar from 9:30 to 10:30. Purchased Peterson Bird Guide. Walked part of Turkey Ridge with guided group - guided by ornithologist from AL DCNR. Some good sightings. Beautiful day. Cut it a little short to get back to help Kathy with house preps for Thanksgiving. Several pics. Thank YOU, LORD, for such a glorious day and life!

C.O.M.E. Bike Hike to Chief Ladiga Trail

Bike Hike: Chief Ladiga Trail, 13.6 to 5.0 mile marker and return Piedmont, AL 11/10/2007 All Day Event
Distance: 17.2 miles
Rating: 5/5
Conditions: Beautiful sunny clear skies, cool to mild temps, light breeze.
Thoughts: Piedmont plateau displaying Autumn golds, yellows, reds and various shades in between! Fourteen of us from 3 years old and up participated! I believe everyone had a great time of fellowship and appreciation of GOD's wonderful creation, dressed in its finest fall colors. Kathy drove the Explorer (support wagon) and had a picnic lunch ready for all of us at mile marker 5 (our turnaround point).
Check out some of the photos here.

This is something I have been anticipating for some time. GOD has really given me a heart to use HIS creation as a springboard to reach others, to teach about who GOD is and what HE wants to do. I wish I could adequately convey how wonderful it makes me feel to have all of you, those that I love so much, participate with me in this type ministry event. I hope this is just the beginning of many more!
Agape.

Hike Moss Rock Preserve

Hike: Moss Rock Preserve, Hoover, AL 11/08/2007, 11:15-13:45
Distance: ~5 miles
Rating: 4/5
Difficulty: Moderate
Conditions: Sunny, clear. Cool - high 40's. Light wind.
Thoughts: Some really outstanding rock formations. Good signposts identifying certain trees and bushes. Leaves in full Fall color. Well used, but well maintained Nature preserve. Saw squirrel and heard different birds. Only met one other hiker on trail. Enjoyable hike. Thank YOU, LORD, for preserving this area for us. No maps available at kiosk. Fair signage for trails (good in some spots but not consistent).

Mtn Biking Swayback

Bike Hike: Swayback Bridge Trail, Bronze Trail, Wetumpka, AL 11/07/2007 09:00-10:00
Distance: 4.0 (offroad, singletrack)
Rating: 4/5
Difficulty: Moderate
Conditions: Sunny, very cool, 40s-50s. Lt. breeze.
Thoughts: Beautiful area. leaves changing color. Couldn't pay as much attention to the landscape - having to watch for roots and rocks! Real singletrack! Good physical workout. Took a few pics. Chose to walk bike down some steep grades.

Reconnoiter Chief Ladiga Rail Trail

Bike Hike: Chief Ladiga Trail, Piedmont, AL, 11/05/2007 12:45-15:00
Distance: 17.2 miles (MM 13.6 to 5.0 and return) Departed from Eubanks Welcome Center
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: Sunny, cool, light breeze
Thoughts: Reconnoiter for the Crestview Outdoor Ministry Expeditions Bike Hike here on Saturday. Beautiful landscape in the Fall. Trail passes through Pinhoti Trail and over Terrapin Creek.

Spectacular Fall Hike!

Hike: Mountain Creek AL, 11/03/2007 09:30-11:30
Distance: 4 miles (est.)
Rating: 5+/5
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: In a word-- Perfect! Sunny, clear, bright blue sky. Mild temps (50's and up). Low humidity. Light to moderate breeze. Smell of Fall in the air. A gentle occassional drizzle of leaves throughout the hike.
Thoughts: YOU are awesome in the place, LORD! Took over 100 pics today. The trees were in regal splendor; gold, yellow, red, orange, crimson, and even some purples. The hickories are my favorite, as they burst into full bright yellow and gold color. Contrasted against the green and reds of the other trees and the bright blue sky, the scene was inspiring. I bow in reverence to creativity, power, and beauty. Thank YOU for painting such a glorious forest for me. Please give me YOUR words to share with others. As I consider the beauty here, I am reminded that YOU should be even more glorified in my life - in the life of the Christian. Help me to tell others this truth!

North & South Loop Cherokee Ridge

Hike: Sat., 10/27/2007 10:00-13:00 Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail North/South Loops, Kowliga, AL
Distance: 4.0 miles
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Conditions: Sunny, mild temps (50's to low 70's), light breeze.
Thoughts: Pictures of wildflowers and leaves turning red. County is beginning to pave access road. Lots of big grasshoppers about today along with a couple of small lizards.

Not Something You'd Expect to see Hiking Here!

From Fox News.com:

Officials Use Raw Chicken, Camera to Check Out Reports of African Lion in West Virginia Woods

Monday, October 29, 2007

LEWISBURG, W.Va. — Using a video camera and raw chicken, state officials hope to learn whether the king of the jungle is prowling the woods of West Virginia.

Bow hunter Jim Shortridge believes he saw a full-grown, male African lion weighing between 250 and 300 pounds at the foot of Cold Knob Mountain earlier this month. The state Division of Natural Resources confirmed that at least one other person has reported seeing the lion.

Using a camera normally employed to catch people dumping trash illegally, the state Department of Environmental Protection has joined with Greenbrier County Animal Control Officer Robert McClung and exotic animal expert Jim Forga to see if they can substantiate the sightings.

Twenty pounds of raw chicken left on the site last week were devoured, but McClung said that doesn't prove the lion's existence.

"Anything could have eaten that," he said.

If officials do spot the lion on videotape, they may set a bear trap for the animal. If caught, it would be turned over to Forga, who runs Tiger Mountain Refuge in Rainelle, a shelter for exotic animals

Looking forward to Church Bike Ride

Looking forward to our planned bike ride to Chief Ladiga Trail in Piedmont, AL on Saturday, 11/10/2007!
See Crestview Outdoor Ministry Expeditions for more info.

Cherokee Ridge - Deadening Trail

Hike: Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail - Deadening Trail, Tallapoosa County, 10/13/2007, 09:15-13:00
Distance: 4 miles
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Conditions: Clear and sunny. Mild temps, low 50's to 70's. Mild to moderate breeze.
Thoughts: Life of Adventure... that's what I thought about on this trail! More challenging than most other trails in this part of state. Took an Audobon Wildflower Guide with me. Stopped lots to ID and photo wildflowers. Butterflies will not pose long enough for their portraits! ID: Yellow Star Grass, Rough Blaze Star, and Hairy Golden Aster. Several others I photo'd and will attempt to ID later. Also scarred up whitetailed doe. Observed Turkey Vulture (3x) fairly close, as well as Blue Jay.
Footing on pine straw is becoming precarious in steep places and I had a steep descent near Lichen Bluff - went down on my behind! Cut left thumb in process. First use of first aid kit on the trail.
Thank YOU, LORD, for this place. Please speak to my spirit. Guide me in YOUR path!

Cherokee Ridge - North Loop and others

Hike: Cherokee Ridge - North Loop, Chimney Rock Loop, Kowliga Bay Loop 10/12/2007, 10:00-13:00
Distance: 5 miles
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Conditions: Dry. Clear, mild, sunny.
Thoughts: Was off this morning in preparation for midnight shift during RB1 outage. Flushed whitetailed doe during hike. Very enjoyable and peaceful hike. Several Fall wildflowers are in bloom! Lots of pics today.

Hiking Between Shifts...

Hike: Mountain Creek, Confederate Memorial Park, 10/06/2007, 09:30-11:30
Conditions: Warm; mostly cloudy to partly cloudy.
Distance: 4.0 miles
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Easy
Thoughts: Explored some new fire breaks (read that new trails!). Great time. Thankful to be able to get out some and be refreshed - the fall outage at work is very draining.

Beginning of Fall? - Hiking at Mtn Creek

Hike: Confederate Memorial Park, Mtn Creek, 09/22/2007, 09:15-11:15
Distance: 4 miles
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: Partly cloudy, fast moving clouds; warm; edge of tropical depression moving through but no rain.
Thoughts: Most enjoyable hike and did I really need this! It is wonderful to get out where my spirit can be calmed and refreshed. Thank YOU LORD for soothing my spirit and mind - for the gentle caress of the breeze and the rejuvenation that YOU give to me. Trees starting fall color change. Small fall flowers also starting to bloom. Lots of crows about today. One very vocal, high soaring hawk. Took lots of pics today. The breeze through the trees reminded me of my hikes behind home growing up, YOU encourage me today as YOU did then!

Alabama Nature Center - 9/15/2007

Hike: Alabama Nature Center - Millbrook, AL - 09/15/2007 11:45-14:15
All three trails (Hilltop Pass, Turkey Ridge, Still Creek Run).
Distance: 6 miles
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: Very warm, mostly sunny, moderate breeze, not quite as humid.
Thoughts: Great hike! A little later in the day than I normally do, thanks to having to go in at work for a while. (I also helped scatter dirt at church for a while after work.) Several beautiful butterflies out today; couple of small (and fast) lizards, and several different birds. A few people fishing at the pond in Still Creek Run area. LORD, YOU refreshed my spirit and body today! Please help me stay focused on YOU and disciplined during this demanding month-long outage. Help me learn what YOU have for me in all this.

Cherokee Ridge - South Loop

Hike: Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail - South Loop - Lake Martin, AL, 09/03/2007, 10:00-12:00
Distance: 3 miles
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Moderate
Conditions: Very warm; muggy; mostly to partly cloudy
Thoughts: Planned to hike Swayback Bridge Trail but too many mountain bikers present - so switched to South Loop Trail here instead. Good choice! Very good hike. Thank YOU, LORD. Just me and YOU on the trail today. It was great to finish this trail strong. It would usually tax my strength at the end with its continual ascent. Getting stronger?!