These days, rarely do we walk away from our regular day-in-day-out experiences feeling strong, empowered, and knowing we can accomplish anything. But I have to say, my favorite past time, backpacking …really a fancy way of saying a long walk in the woods, does just that. No matter how easy or hard the terrain, abundant sunshine or lack thereof, or my personal state of mind, I always come away feeling stronger, more grounded, and totally inspired!
Collin getting her campy look on an overnight in the Cohuttas
I was fortunate enough to be able to take advantage of this beautiful weather we have been having lately here in the north Georgia mountains- cool and crisp, sunny blue skies, and so much GREEN. Spring is one of my all-time favorite seasons to hike because of all the wildflowers showing their sweet faces high and low- everywhere you look. Some are more subtle than others.
A dense thicket of Foam Flower along the East Cowpen Trail
I headed out into the Cohutta Wilderness area for an overnight hike to test some new gear I am using in the VIP backpacking program. This spring did not disappoint.
This was the first time I have been back in the Cohuttas since wildfires raged through the area a few years ago. I didn’t know what to expect, other than to expect something different. I was relieved to see that life goes on, even after great tragedy and that mother earth heals all wounds with time. There was foliage where previously there had been little and open areas where there previously had been undergrowth. I saw a lot of wildlife too, which feels like such a remarkable gift when we catch even a momentary glimpse.
I feel honored and blessed to be able to visit truly wild places and be a part of the wilderness, even for just a day or two. My natural untamed and instinctual skills are magically clarified and enhanced. It is easy for me to be present and observant. My senses sharpen and the world gets much simpler.
I see you
For many of us, most of life is spent indoors completing endless tasks in an environment that is completely oblivious to the outside world. I believe it is so important to get outside and soak up all the beauty ever-present in our wild spaces. Our souls long to play among the big trees, cool mountain streams, and fern-covered hillsides. I am so grateful for the protected public lands that we still have and hope they stay that way for generations to come. We are all stewards of the land.
Burned mountain laurel roots growing out of rock
When we consciously enter the natural world with awareness, gratitude, and preparedness, there is true Magic in the Wild Woods awaiting us at every turn.
