The earth shook; The heavens also dropped rain at the presence of God; Sinai itself was moved at the presence of God, the God of Israel.
You, O God, sent a plentiful rain,
Whereby You confirmed Your inheritance, When it was weary.
-- Psalms 68:8-9 (NKJV)
O God, You are more awesome than Your holy places.
-- Psalms 68:35 (NKJV)
I remember reading this Psalm when I was in Arizona the first time – Summer of 2007 – after seeing the Grand Canyon.I don’t believe I can improve on what the Psalmist says, “GOD, YOU are indeed more awesome than YOUR holy places.”Thank YOU for choosing me – for calling me – for living in me and for doing such wonders in my life.Thank YOU for showing me just a small glimpse of YOUR majesty and care in YOUR Creation.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009, 21:12MST
After a full day of Graphics & Design class I was ready to get outdoors!I planned better today and was ready to go.ThunderbirdConservationPark in Glendale, AZ was within a 30 minute drive of HoneywellAutomationCollege.
The park is situated in the middle of the suburbs, but the foothills and surrounding Sonoran desert-scape set it apart.Several trails ring the foothills, cross the summits of some, and meander across the desert bottom land.There are quite a few ramadas and other amenities in the park.Thunderbird is touted as a conservation park and there are several different types of fauna observed here.I was able to view many different passerines as well as the usual desert lizards.Coyotes, jackrabbits, ground squirrels, and other similar mammals probably venture into the park at night, but I did not observe any today.Set in the midst of the suburbs, you might expect the park to see lots of traffic, and you would be correct.There were quite a few other hikers and trail runners.About four mountain bikers shared the trail with us all this afternoon.The trails are also open to equestrian riders, though none were present during my hike.
ThunderbirdPark is the classic igneous rock common among the mountains in Phoenix.(I am not a geologist, so understand I may not be classifying the rock correctly.But the rocks “look” like they come from volcanic origin.)
I started from the parking lot to the south and east of the amphitheater and hiked clockwise Thunderbird Trail H-3 and H-1 for a total of 3.8 miles.My pace was quicker than normal because (you guessed it) the park gates were scheduled to close at sunset.(I hate it when they do that – what time is sunset?More importantly is that time open to interpretation?)I gave it a trail difficulty rating of moderate due to the elevation gain, and rocky condition in some portions of the trail.The area was impressive – another example of GOD’s magnificent work.The trails were well maintained though rocky in spots.Signage was particularly good (thank you Glendale!) for this part of the country.ThunderbirdPark gave me a good physical workout but it was hard to focus on the spiritual due to the volume of human traffic on the trail. Nevertheless, it was a great hike (rated it 4/5 on my scale) and very much appreciated.Glendale should be justifiably proud of their conservation park.
“YOU have turned for me my mourning into dancing; YOU have put off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness.” – Psalm 30:11
GOD, YOU are so awesome.YOU have indeed so many times worked good in my life in the midst of troubles.I give YOU all praise and glory, in JESUS name amen.
Off to class this morning, Experion Graphics and Design.
Plans for this afternoon are to check out WhiteTankMountains in west Phoenix.
Mon. 3/30/2009; 20:16MST
Well, “the best laid plans of mice and men often go awry.”By the time I got out of class at 4pm the combination of heavy traffic and spring-time sunset times prevented me from going hiking.Sunset comes a little after 6pm and most of the regional parks lock their gates by sundown.
I took the time to make a trip down AZ101 to Cabela’s Retail Store in Glendale.It was indeed impressive – a lot like Bass Pro but with the addition of a wildlife museum of sorts (Aftrican Big game as well as western US animals).The stuffed wildlife dioramas were well done, educational, and interesting.Believe it or not, I did not make a purchase while inside!
I will plan in more detail for tomorrow and take everything I need in the truck for hiking. This will allow me to head directly to ThunderbirdConservationPark from HoneywellAutomationCollege.I should be able to get at least a little time on the trails this way.
“The voice of the LORD is powerful; the voice of the LORD is full of majesty.
The voice of the LORD breaks the cedars, yes, the LORD splinters the cedars of Lebanon.HE makes them also skip like a calf, Lebanon and Sirion like a young wild ox.” – Psalm 29:4-6
The window of my third floor room faces east.It is impressive to see the sun rise above the palm trees and structures of Traveler’s Inn next door.As impressive as the sunrise may be, as impressive as the forces found in nature are, we would do well to remember that all of this is just a small testimony to how awesome and great is our GOD!HE controls all of HIS Creation and is also intimately acquainted and concerned with our personal lives.
My thoughts are toward Crestview this morning.I pray that GOD will work in the worship times today as HIS people seek HIM.
After breakfast this morning, I will point the Colorado 4x4 north on I-17 toward Red Rock country.My plans include hiking at DeadHorseRanchState Park and Montezuma’s CastleNational Monument.
Sunday, March 29, 2009; 20:22MST
Has been a very good day and my legs feel it!The drive up to DeadHorseRanchState Park took a little longer than I expected due to some road construction, but I arrived about 09:30.The drive was a worshipful experience though, as I listened to KLOVE and ArizonaShine (among several) contemporary Christian radio stations.As a matter of fact I listened to them up and back.Worship was the order of the day on the trail and the road!
Dead Horse Ranch AZ State Park is adjacent to CoconinoNational Forest and includes typical “red rock” Arizona landscape with the addition of the Verde River and its riparian zones.The area is beautiful.Glenn would have appreciated the two lagoons that are in the park.Several anglers were busy at work and I saw evidence of many fish caught, including trout.
I hiked a large loop including part of the Lime Kiln Trail, Thumper Trail, Lower Raptor Hill Trail, Rattlesnake Wash Overlook Spur, part of the Mesa Trail, and the Tavasci Marsh Trail.All of these trails together with some hiking on park roads equaled about 10 miles of hiking!My legs feel the 10 miles tonight, but the day was certainly worth it.
The hike included washes (arroyos), small mesas, and everything in between.I observed numerous passerines and the ubiquitous lizard.(This is a lizard heaven!)Also saw the occasional raptor (some type of hawk, I think).It occurred to me that it could have been a Golden Eagle – though my knowledge of them is limited.Contrary to the Thumper Trail’s name, I did not see any Jackrabbits this time.The number of butterflies amazed me.They were drawn to the desert blooming wildflowers and cacti.It is wonderful to see the desert bloom.The desert is alive – GOD takes care of HIS Creation.
As I came down off Lower Raptor Hill Trail, there were splendid views of TuzigootNational Monument.I found a little used trail (Tavasci Marsh Trail) that led down to the Tavasci March (part of The Verde River) which the ancient Sanaguin Indians worked.
After catching a late and quick lunch at Wendy’s in CampVerde, I headed north to see Montezuma’s CastleNational Monument.I was concerned that two hours might not be enough time to adequately explore this site but my fears were unfounded.The monument is not large and I was able to really explore and soak up the feel of the monument.It never ceases to amaze me how GOD works things out.I go and plan an entire day of time outdoors with 10 miles of hiking the back country and HE touches my spirit more in the two hours I spent at Montezuma’s Castle!I was impressed by the immensity and grandeur of this place.These were real people with real hopes, dreams, fears, and spirits.Why did they build these impressive structures?What happened to them?Why did they leave this majestic site after living there 400 years?What monuments are we leaving behind with our lives for others to admire?
Sitting at the MontgomeryRegionalAirport waiting… flight delayed until 07:16 for required crew rest.Weather in the area is bad but seems to be confined mostly to extreme south Alabama.Kathy & Diane saw me off at the terminal in a light rain.Thankfully MGM has a partial cover extending over the unloading area.
This trip to Phoenix seems hurried – not as well planned out as my previous trips.Is it getting “old hat”?I don’t think so… just so much competing for time these last several months.I really do need an extended vacation.I hope we get to go on our Great Western Expedition.
Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!-- Psalms 27:14 (NKJV)
LORD, I wait on YOU as best I know how.Forgive me of my sins.Guide me to walk daily closer to YOU.I ask for YOUR wisdom that I may know how to shepherd YOUR people at Crestview.Comfort and defend Kathy & Diane during our time apart.Thank YOU for what YOU have done and for what YOU will do.In JESUS name, amen.
Sat, 3/28/2009 20:35MST (Phoenix, AZ)
Plane was delayed a little over an hour due to time required for crew rest and the weather.I just did have time to gobble-down a bacon-egg-cheese biscuit and hash browns before boarding the plane for Phoenix.
Plane arrived in Phoenix exactly on schedule, 10:57MST.
Lots of people in Phoenix this week… some type of Spring-training (baseball thing), spring break, and other special events.Hertz was almost swamped.They rented me a 4x4 Chev Colorado Pickup because they were running short on intermediate size cars.Didn’t cost IP any additional money!
Remembering how I missed out last fall on BoyceThompsonArboretumState Park, I headed east toward the Superstitions and SuperiorArizona.(I stopped this time at Carl’s Burgers for a quick lunch!)The drive was a little congested until after Apache Junction, but still enjoyable.The SonoranDesert and SuperstitionMountains are quite enchanting.As I entered TontoNational Forest through GonzolesPass, PicketpostMountain loomed impressively on the right.Thompson Arboretum SP is nestled in the shadow of PicketpostMountain.
GOD blessed me greatly with wonderful weather and a clear head and stomach this time.The spring desert flowers were in regal form today.I was genuinely impressed!I did not expect that much color, fragrance, and variety.The hummingbirds and butterflies were having a field day!Hope the pictures do them justice.
The 3.5 miles of hiking today covered areas from Sonoran desert gardens, to Australian Eucalyptus forests, to Ayers Lake, to Picketpost Mountain high trail, to a Demonstration Garden, a riparian (creek side) area, and everything in between.There were many lizards in attendance, along with several ground squirrels.As expected, birds were everywhere.ThompsonArboretumState Park is, in my estimation, a jewel in the crown of the State of Arizona!Thank YOU, LORD, for preparing this place and sharing it with me.
Hike: Mountain Creek, Monday, 3/23/2009, 17:00-18:00 Distance: ~2 miles Rating: 4/5 (hurried because the park closes at dusk) Difficulty: Easy Conditions: Sunny, clear. Light wind. Sun headed down. Very comfortable temps/humidity. Thoughts/Observations: Forest beginning to come alive with signs of Spring. Brilliant red Cardinals, pure white Dogwood blooms, and passionate purple Wisteria are the order of the day here. Dogwoods are well on their way to being in full bloom. Wisteria seems to be just beginning to bloom here (a little behind some of the other areas I've seen). Give it another week or so to be in full bloom. (Note: Some of the hardwoods in the bottom land as you enter the nature trail area have been cut due to disease or injury. Wisteria may not be as widespread due to this culling.) Azaleas are budding and will also burst forth into bloom by Easter. Hardwoods have that light-green color that has always reminded me of Spring as their new leaves begin to stretch out to the sun. Red Maples add a nice dash of red to the forest canopy and mid-story. Squirrels are scurrying about along with many passarines. I really needed this hike -- this time to get away from the demands of everyday work, ministry, and family. Thank YOU, LORD, for providing this place for me and for meeting me here! Thank YOU for encouraging, comforting, and strengthening me.
Hike: Mountain Creek, Sat. 2/28/2009, 10:41-12:43 Distance: 4 miles Rating: 4/5 Difficulty: Easy Conditions: Cloudy. Fast moving clouds. Many strong t-storms earlier in morning (some tornadoes east of us). Several blow downs in the forest. Windy. Temps in upper 50's to mid 60's. Pleasant day in the forest.
Thoughts/Observations:
Was planning on spending Fri night through Sat evening with Dad & Mom but severe weather kept us close to home. Went to Mountain Creek after squall line of storms had passed our area to spend some time on the trail. Hard to be still and listen today for some reason - not sure why.
Many passarines about - getting ready for Spring. Wonder if they realize it is supposed to snow tonight/tomorrow morning?! Got quite close to some sparrows and thrashers on the Hickory Hill Trail. Several gray squirrels busy scurrying around. Vocal crows and high flying vulture. One species of hardwood is blooming already in the bottom land. It is a quite stunning, soft red bloom. Not sure of the species yet. (Maybe a red maple?) Most water I have seen in the small creek through this park! Verse on my mind, Psalm 121. Speak to me, LORD I desire to know YOU better and follow YOU closer.
Hike: Expedition #9 Barton's Beach Nature Preserve, Perry County, AL 2/21/2009 09:25-13:25 Distance: Estimated at 4 miles (pedometer did not function correctly) Rating: 5/5 Difficulty: Easy. All trails were flat. Little to no elevation changes throughout the area. Some blow-downs to negotiate but bushwhacking required was not a problem. Conditions: Absolutely gorgeous day! Bright blue, clear sky throughout the expedition. Temps started out around 40, but warmed up to low 60's by afternoon. Breeze was light to moderate and except for the sound in the tree tops was not noticeable in the forest. Thoughts/Observations: Martha, Jon, Nathan, Charlie & Cynthia (their first expedition) joined me for Expedition #9 to Perry Lakes & Barton's Beach Nature Preserve. We had a wonderful time, though we did miss some of our regular ones. Hiked Ridge Trail, Round Lake Trail (did a little bushwhacking through slough trail area), and climbed the 100' Birding Tower (views were amazing here and the wind was more noticeable up top). Also hiked the Beach Trail and Secret Trail. Spent some time on the white sand beach of the Cahaba River. The white sand is truly amazing - almost as pristine as one would expect on the Gulf beaches. We picnicked together and shared a devotional from Romans 1 and Psalm 1. A great time and, as Martha said, "This is one to do again."
Hike: Mountain Creek, Sat. 2/7/2009, 08:00-11:30 Distance: 4.7 miles Rating: 4.5/5 Difficulty: Easy Conditions: Bright blue sky. Calm to slight breeze. 40 degrees at start, warmed up nicely. Observations/Thoughts: Many passerines in the forest today: cardinal, tufted titmouse, blue jay, eastern blue bird, American robin. Pileated woodpecker in high top of poplar tree - with his red pointed hat highlighted in the morning sun, he looked like a monarch surveying his kingdom. Many gray squirrels. Thoughts on Chiz, Great Western Expedition, and Crestview. I desire YOU, LORD GOD; to seek YOU. Please guide my steps. Be my TrailGuide.
From my youth I have loved “getting outside” – hiking and observing nature. As I move away from the noise of “civilization” and into the solitude of the forest, desert, seaside, or mountain, I am enveloped with a gentle quietness that is hard to describe. The demands, deadlines, and disorder of the daily drudgery just evaporate as I hike deeper into the woods. The cacophony of the day is gradually replaced with the alluring song of various passarines, the buzz of the numerous insects, or one of the other living sounds of the forest. The rustle of the wind in the trees or through the broomsage is a caress on my spirit that reminds me of the gentle care of the CREATOR, HIS care not just for Creation in general but for me as well. Along the path HE places special little jewels to remind me of HIS love – small woodland violets (my personal favorite), majestic sycamores or oaks, vivid autumn leaves, a dogwood in full bloom, a brightly colored and inquisitive bird, a small babbling brook, sweeping panoramas of mountains or valleys, or the unexpected view of a coyote, fox, or bobcat. I never know what treasure awaits around the bend or over the hill – even on trails that I have covered many times. Such is the love and care of my CREATOR.
I hope that you know HIM too. I hope that you also experience this wonder and awe as you “get out” and “get away”. HE is waiting to meet you there.
Manis still discovering new creatures and new things that GOD has already created. We serve an awesome and creative GOD!This news piece from ScienceDaily is a prime example. We are excited to discover these "new" creatures, but they have been there all along. We just didn't know it.
Get out and see what GOD has done! Spend time with HIM and see what HE will do.
(Click title above for link to entire article.) ScienceDaily (2009-02-04) -- Scientists have returned from a month-long deep-sea voyage to a marine reserve near Tasmania, Australia, that not only netted coral-reef samples likely to provide insight into the impact of climate change on the world's oceans, but also brought to light at least three never-before-seen species of sea life...
Pat Byington does an excellent job of compiling information and calendar events for environmental events germane to Alabama in one web location. If you're curious about what environmental events are coming up around the state or if you're looking for that special place in GOD's Creation you have not visited yet, then check out Bama Environmental News.
Hike: Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail, Kowliga, AL 01/31/2009 09:18-11:39 Distance: 4.6 miles Rating: 5/5 Difficulty: Moderate Conditions: Gorgeous blue sky. Clear. Cool. Calm. Observations/Thoughts: Observed white tail deer, several passerines, crows, vulture, deer tracks, armadillos scratchings, Bird-Foot Violets still blooming. Aquamarine color and sparkling shimmer of the lake at the water's edge is quite soothing. Thank YOU for such a beautiful day and for what YOU are doing in my life. Thinking about "Dealing with Uncertainty" - topic for Morning Praise tomorrow.
Days like this really make me consider how great it would be to have a job relating to ecology or natural science; to be in GOD's outdoors most of the time (versus on weekends and other special events). I guess that Saturday is really my Sabbath. Obviously, Sunday is a busy day for me with sermons, discipleship classes, and other ministry. Saturday is my day to "get away" from distractions and spend time in GOD's Creation worshipping and communing with HIM.
Perhaps you have always wanted to give camping “a try”.Perhaps you like camping but you have a little one that’s just not quite old enough to take on a camping trip far from home.Well, we may just have the answer for you!Why don’t you participate in our Free Trial Campout on Friday evening, 3/13/2009, until Saturday morning, 3/14/2009.We will set up our tents and campout under the stars (and street lights) on our church campus.There will be a campfire, camp food, smores, and plenty of fabulous fellowship!Camping out on our church campus means that you will not be very far from a modern bathroom, running water, and all the creature comforts we have become accustomed to.
Please DO NOT bring any electronic video games or similar – we want to focus on being together outside.The intent of the evening is to Worship GOD, enjoy HIS Creation, and fellowship together – all in a relaxing yet adventurous atmosphere.Please feel free to bring any camp related games (such as cards, various balls, Frisbees, etc.).
Mar. 13, 2009 – C.O.M.E. #9.1 – Free Trial Campout – Church campus – you may start setting up your camp at 5:00pm (or join us whenever you can)
Mar. 21, 2009 – C.O.M.E. #10 – Location To Be Determined!
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03. C.O.M.E. #9 – Barton’s Beach Nature Preserve Hike & Picnic – What to expect!
Plan to depart the church NO LATER than 8:00am on Saturday, February 21, 2009.We will travel to Barton’s Beach Nature Preserve / PerryLakesPark near Marion, AL.This is a riparian/ox bow lake area.Terrain is flat.Area is heavily wooded with mixed Pines and Hardwoods.The oxbow lakes/swampy areas have Cypress and Tupelo.Many different species of birds (from bald eagles to common passerines) inhabit this beautiful location.Many small mammals and reptiles also live in these woods and lakes.
We will hike from the trailhead/parking area several of the trails in the area with the highlight being a hike to the white sand beaches of the CahabaRiver.Plans are to picnic together on the beach.We will hold our devotional here as well.
Hiking trails are all flat and rated easy.Expect a total of about 6 miles of trails.There is a 100’ birding tower, suspension foot-bridge, and several other architecturally unique buildings in this park.
Please wear hiking shoes or boots and appropriate clothing for the weather.You will need a small backpack, water, snacks, and a picnic lunch.Be sure and bring a small Bible, Journal, and pen/pencil.If you like, a pair of compact binoculars and a digital camera would be good items to pack.
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04. Pond/Lake Fishing Event
We would like to schedule a fishing event that would be suitable for families during the spring time.Ideally, the location would be a pond or small lake that provides easy and safe access for families and children.GristState Park, near Selma, immediately comes to mind, but I would love to have input and suggestions from others.
Do you have a “favorite fishing hole” you would like to suggest?
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05. Any interest in a DeepSea Fishing Trip?
Do you have any interest in a Gulf of Mexico Deep Sea Fishing Trip this spring or summer?Get your comments in to Pastor Larry.
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06. Creation Moment (Darwin’s Puzzle)
John 18:38a
“Pilate saith unto him, What is truth?”
How do you know that what you think you know is really true? Charles Darwin wondered just that, and the answer to his question sheds a lot of light on the origins debate today.
Since Darwin had no formal training in science, he made his case for evolution from philosophy, not from science. Philosophy and theology, after all, was the area in which he was trained. This background led him to ask a very important question. In Darwin's own words, "…the horrid doubt always arises whether the convictions of man's mind, which was developed from the mind of lower animals, are of any value or at all trustworthy. Would anyone trust in the convictions of a monkey's mind, if there were any convictions in such a mind?"
In other words, what Darwin was saying was that if his theory was true, it was the product of a mind not much greater than a monkey's. And who, including Darwin himself, could trust such a mind? The only way in which human thoughts might be separated far above the animals is if creation is true. Either way, the logical conclusion of Darwin's puzzle is that creation is true and evolution is untrustworthy!
It is no accident that as the teaching that man came from lower animals has grown, the number of people who act like animals has also grown. Darwin's own statement seems to show the twisted logic that results from evolution.(From http://www.creationmoments.com)
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07. Ministry Opportunities
Crestview Outdoor Ministry Expeditions needs you!We are an outdoor-Creation-themed ministry designed to point others to GOD, to worship HIM in HIS Creation, and to promote appreciation of and care for GOD’s Creation.We would love to have you join us on our next Expedition.
C.O.M.E. #9 – Barton’s Beach Nature Preserve Hike & Picnic on the white sand beach of the CahabaRiver – 2/21/20098:00am departure from church.
Our VacationBibleSchool this year will have a “Summer Camp” theme.Is GOD calling you to minister to HIS kids and their families?Join us as we pray, plan, and prepare for this Vacation Bible School Adventure!Please see April Bush or Pastor Larry if you’re interested in helping out with this vital ministry.
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This world, as a glorious apartment of the BoundlessPalace of the SOVEREIGN CREATOR is furnished with an infinite variety of animated scenes, inexpressibly beautiful and pleasing, equally free to the inspection and enjoyment of all HIS creatures. -- William Bartram
Les Stroud, Survivorman "Arctic Tundra", is on Discovery Channel tonight from Baffin Island, Canada. Looks v-e-r-y cold there!
It is truly amazing - a testimony to how GOD has designed HIS Creation - to see how many animals flourish in the harsh, frigid conditions found in the Arctic Tundra. The amount of garbage and flotsam on these remote islands was also a little depressing to see. This far from "civilization" we still manage to interject our "cast off" plastic and other refuse. Hopefully we will learn to practice recycle and reuse rather than just throwing away.
The Arctic (and Antarctic too) are truly wondrous and inspiring places to see. Perhaps one day I will be able to visit. Anybody up for a summer expedition to Alaska?
CONDITIONS: Mostly cloudy, light to no breeze, quite cold (started with a low of 20 this morning. Almost no one else at Preserve (too cold for them, I guess).
OBSERVATIONS/THOUGHTS: COME#8 (Kathy, Jon, Nathan, and me). Hiked all three regions of Lanark. Observed large flock of turkey at entrance to Hilltop Pass. Many passarines (as usual) but did not see any deer. Heard owl from tree top walk (Hilltop Pass). Kathy's wheelchair did well throughout the preserve. AWF had a roaring fire going in large fireplace at Pavilion (it was appreciated!). Good expedition. Gave a 4 rating because my cell phone kept ringing throughout most of the morning (I have weekend duty). (I had to leave after lunch to go in to mill, but they fixed the problem before I arrived - so I went back to hiking!) Nathan tried out a Tarzan vine in Still Creek Run - it didn't support his weight and he tested out a "hiney landing"! (Ouch!) Had a picnic lunch at the pavilion after Turkey Ridge (before hiking Still Creek Run). This was a very relaxed and enjoyable expedition. Thank YOU, LORD.
HIKE: Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail (North & South), 01/10/2009, 09:44-12:27
DISTANCE: 3.9 miles
RATING: 5/5
CONDITIONS: Partly cloudy to mostly cloudy; breezy; temps in upper 50's. Sprinkling rain near end of hike.
DIFFICULTY: Moderate
OBSERVATIONS/THOUGHTS: Quite a gray day, but a few rays of sunshine managed to breakthrough during the morning. Even though the clouds might be considered gloomy it was a most enjoyable and peaceful hike. Observed a wide assortment of wildlife today. It has become quite common for me to see whitetailed deer in this area and today was no exception, as I scared up a total of three does. The ubiquitous cardinal was counted as well as woodpeckers and other passarines. One special encounter was with a small black snake with a yellow neck-band (believe it was Diadophis punctatus, Ring-necked snake). It was a blessing to actually see him, he was so small and well camouflaged amidst the leaf litter. He was quite agreeable to having his photo taken! Sprinkling rain started about the last mile of the hike and forced me into my parka to keep from getting my camera and cell phone too wet.
Crestview Outdoor Ministry Expeditions and plans for 2009 were on my mind as well as several individuals. It seems like it always takes me at least a mile of hiking to leave behind distracting thoughts and to "get centered" -- i.e. quiet and listening for GOD's SPIRIT. I stopped just off the south loop amidst a boulder pile to read and meditate. Read from 1 Tim. 5.
I am also beginning to get in the "excited planning mode" about our Great West Expedition!
HIKE: Ft. Toulouse National Historic Site, Wetumpka, AL, 01/03/2009, 09:04-12:15 DISTANCE: 4.3 miles RATING: 4/5 DIFFICULTY: Easy CONDITIONS: Cloudy, few sprinkles near end of hike, little to no breeze; temps in low to mid 60's. OBSERVATIONS/THOUGHTS: Lots of gray squirrels today - playing all around. Serenaded by the bountiful passerines. Flushed a very nice 6-pt whitetail buck in the bottom land between the arboretum deck and the Tallapoosa River. Large woody vines in this bottom land - even noticed evidence of woodpecker work on these large vines. Blackberry vines and Chinese privet hedge also abundant in the bottom. Several small unidentified evergreen shrubs with red berries (not a holly). Mosquitoes would probably be a problem in this area in warmer weather. A few people (and two dogs) on the trail. Continued planning for 2009 C.O.M.E. ministry. Meditated on sermon topic for tomorrow, "Prepare to Meet Your GOD" (Amos). I love YOU, LORD, with all that I am. Please forgive my sins. Guide me daily to walk closer to YOU. Thank YOU for YOUR call on my life. I ask for YOUR wisdom as I seek to shepherd YOUR people at Crestview and to integrate outdoor-based ministry in to the overall ministry of the church. I pray that this will open doors for so many others who have a love of the outdoors but who do not know The CREATOR of all this splendor! In JESUS name, Amen.
SPOT Check OK from parking lot at Ft. Toulouse did not work, but did work from parking lot of Wendy's back out on US231.
I am awaiting the publication of our group's weekend duty schedule before making concrete plans for outdoor adventures this year. No sense in having to re-do my planning list more than necessary. Having said that, I will begin some "day dreaming" about 2009 adventures, understanding that GOD has the final say in my calendar planning...
The biggest and most anticipated adventure for 2009 has got to be the Great Western Expedition. I renamed it from "Great Northwest Expedition" because the areas covered have expanded to include Utah, California, and Arizona to name a few. The Great Western Expedition (GWE for short) is planned to be a three week adventure through some of America's most storied National Parks. Looks like commitments at work will delay the start of this adventure to the end of May or beginning of June.
Included in the scheme of plans for the GWE are hikes, camp-outs, and sightseeing in Yellowstone, Yosemite, Arches, Sequoia & Kings, Grand Canyon, and Petrified Forest National Parks. Needless to say I am dreaming about this adventure.
Other plans for 2009 include:
-- Putting the pop-up camper to good use. Allow Kathy to get some "practice" with her new Dutch oven and tripod.
-- Backpacking with my brother in Sipsey Wilderness. Intend to see the "Big Tree".
-- More kayaking/canoeing ... including the seasonal Coldwater Creek trip.
-- Break in my 'new' fly fishing equipment.
-- Extended weekend trip to the Great Smokey Mountains.
-- Plan an Everglades National Park trip.
-- Plan an extended C.O.M.E. for 2009 or 2010. Not sure of destination yet.
-- Some C.O.M.E. possibilities for 2009 are: Buck's Pocket SP Oak Mtn SP Cheaha Mtn SP Pinhoti Trail Chief Ladiga Rail Trail Blackwater River FL SF Caving Barton's Beach Nature Preserve Creation Celebration Event
HIKE: Mountain Creek Park, 1/1/2009 09:44-12:20 DISTANCE: 5.2 miles RATING: 5/5 DIFFICULTY: Easy CONDITIONS: Mostly sunny (beautiful!), breezy, temp: upper 40's to low 50's OBSERVATIONS/THOUGHTS: Tranquil hike. Just me and GOD today - no one else in the park. Many passerines about (the Northern Cardinal is especially abundant and impressive!). Several different woodpeckers. Scared a cottontail as I was exiting the park (I didn't see him until he jumped up and I was almost on him then), not sure who was startled the most. Talked to Dad from the trail. Thought about 2009 C.O.M.E. possibilites and about Joe. Meditated upon Psalm 121.
HIKE: The Deadening Alpine Trail, near Kowliga, AL on Lake Martin, 12/27/2008, 09:41-12:50 DISTANCE: 4.5 miles RATING: 5/5 DIFFICULTY: Difficult (due to steepness, danger of nearby cliffs, and some bouldering) CONDITIONS: Mostly cloudy at start to Partly cloudy at end. Moderate to stiff breeze. Fast moving clouds. Lake wind advisory. Temps: upper 60's to low 70's THOUGHTS/OBSERVATIONS: Perhaps the most difficult hike in this part of the state, but a very beautiful area. Observed 1 small whitetailed buck, numerous insects, a few passerines, numerous types of lichen and mosses as well as ferns and usual pine/oak forest types. Met three hikers as I was exiting the trail (they were from Colorado!). First hike with SPOT - did a CheckOK message from the trailhead. (Kathy and Diane both received the message.) Did the Needles Eye on way out.
Thank YOU, LORD, for this time and place and for what YOU are doing in my life.
