Finding New Trails

 

Yesterday I took Jacques on a new trail for our bike ride and hike.  Dogs love adventure, just like people.  He seemed to enjoy the new smells, the majestic views, fresh air, and elevation.  It's a beautiful time of year to explore unknown areas; I want to get out as much as I can before the mountains are covered with snow.  The trails become icy and slippery; I don't venture out up here in the winter months, it's too dangerous. 

We are fortunate to live just a few miles from some of the most magnificent hiking trails in California.  It saves on gas to be able to park the car close to the cabin.  My vehicle gets excellent mileage.  I buy a yearly Adventure Pass, which I can use at most of the hiking trails that we frequent.  The Jeffrey Pines and Oaks are tall and grand.  I love the energy of old trees.  They are so comforting and stable. 

There are numerous campgrounds in our area.  The Pacific Crest Trail has a trail head at this one.  It's a fantastic place to view the fall colors this time of year.  The leaves are turning red, yellow and orange.  Soon the oaks will go dormant.  Raking those dry, brown leaves is on my list of chores this week.

Have you been doing any hiking or walking where you live?

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Staying Grounded in Tumultuous Times

 

We are definitely living in tumultuous times.  Watching the news and observing all of the violence and conflict can be depressing.  Staying grounded can help us enjoy each day and get set in healthy routines.

For me, that means getting a good night's sleep and getting up before the sun rises.  I love to watch it slowly come up and peek over the mountains as I sip a mug of French pressed coffee.  The dogs are taken out and fed as the water is boiling.  They climb onto the couch, get comfortable, and take a nap.  The orange flames flicker over the hot coals in the fireplace.  It adds a soothing touch to the atmosphere. 

Making the bed, cooking nutritious meals, and cleaning the cabin all help me to appreciate what I have.  There are so many people in the world right now that don't have the basics.  It's a strange time to be alive.  

Today I plan to mend my winter sweaters and socks, spend some time knitting, and read a library book.  

What are you plans?

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Freeing up Psychological Energy by Preparing for Winter

 

Have you ever noticed that when you take care of chores that are nagging at you, you have more energy?  This week I had my firewood delivered, took my beach cruiser into the shop to be repaired, and lined up Lula's vaccinations.   Phew!  It feels like such a relief.  Most of the firewood is now neatly stacked, and I am carrying loads of what's left up the steps each day.  The snow tires on the red Beetle, and my mechanic just checked the transmission fluid this afternoon.  The oil was recently changed and the tank is full of gas.

As the birds were starting to zing their beaks into my apples, I picked what was left from the trees.  They have made fragrant apple crisp and tart and flavorful unsweetened applesauce.  Wrightwood is filled with several different varieties of apple trees.  It used to be an apple orchard.  Well, part of it did.  Pears grow very well here, too.  I love walking by all of the fruit trees this time of year.  Two different people gave me apples today.  It was an unexpected surprise. 

  I think you really have to enjoy working with contractors if you own a home.  I find it all very rewarding.  The same thing goes with the car.  I so appreciate paying talented people to use their skills and knowledge in areas where I don't have it.  

Thank you for your comments.  They add so much talent and energy to the blog.  Please reply in English.  I'm sorry, but those with links will not be published.  If you enjoy the posts here, please share them.  Comments may take a few days to appear; they are moderated.