Preston and I have decided to hike (at least) three trails a month in 2020. We’re keeping a journal. I can’t wait to see what we accomplish by this time next year! The whole thing was his idea and he is super excited. He loves to write, so he’s even on board with the journal idea – I love that he loves to write. 

We started out simple. The Lake Placid Loop at Paris Mountain State Park is perfect for any age or fitness level. Especially kiddos! Preston loves packing his Osprey pack before we head out. (Thanks, Mast General Store!)

I had no idea the trail existed. It’s about a half mile trek and mostly flat. The dam is really cool and a great Instagram spot – a DAM good spot! 

Our National Geographic Insect Guide comes in handy when we find strange looking spiders.

Last weekend we headed to Lake Conestee Nature Park. I’ve wanted to check this place out for the longest time.

There are “Learning Loops” with signs and tons of educational information – perfect for homeschooling groups. I can’t wait to take JP.

Hiking is good for us for multiple reasons. We love being outside and I could definitely use the exercise.

We both loved the bridge through the (marsh?) on Raccoon Run trail. I felt like I was on the movie set of Into The Woods. 

The following photos are from the Dragonfly Way trail. It’s equally as beautiful- maybe more so because there’s an overlook on Conestee Lake.

 These pictures were taken right before the drama hit. Preston looked at me and said, “I think I just felt a raindrop.” “No, I don’t think you did,” I said.  The sky (as you can see) looked beautiful! Three steps into the trail and the bottom falls out. We walked the next mile in the pouring rain. By the time we got back to the car, we were soaked.

It was inconvenient to get that wet. My socks slid down into my mushy shoes. My hair stuck to my face. Drops of water fell from my eye lashes, making it difficult to see. We didn’t take coats, so we were freezing.

But we laughed. Hard. All the way home and then some. We still talk about that day. Preston likes to remind me that he tried to tell me that the rain was coming and I didn’t believe him. We made a memory. A beautiful one.

2020 is off to a great start.