my Trailblazing Adventures

One of the most important activities in my life is running. There's nothing like it for me. Just as soon as I come out of the starting gate and my feet hit the ground, I go into my zone. It gets my heart to pumping and the adrenaline kicking. There are no record breaking times or speeds here. FloJo and Marion Jones I am not. I'm a very SLOW runner as I tend to go into my own world and get distracted easily taking in the scenery.

Trail running is the ultimate for me because it incorporates nature into my exercise routine. Pounding concrete and the same old route gets old. I have the Smith's (my Sister and Brother-in-law) to thank for introducing me to it. As an avid trail bike rider, my Brother-in-law added a trail around their farm for practice. During my transition time last year, I was lucky enough to be able to spend some time on the farm and use the trail for my running. THANKS YOU TWO!

So when I can, I'll head to a park or a hiking trail for a run. There's plenty to choose from in our area! I have a confession to make though. I do find myself exploring and venturing off the beaten path on my trail runs. I just have a hard time staying on them. Getting lost and creating my own path is much more fun! My body and shoes do not like when I do this. They can see it coming a mile away. There is not an obstacle that I won't try to cross. Coming home with bruises, scratches, mud or sand covered legs, and socks and shoes drenched in creek or ocean water is more the norm rather than the exception for me.

Running was and still is such a saving grace in my life. It's my therapy. I am so very thankful that my aging knees and body are hanging in there for the time being. The benefits of my running go past just physical conditioning. It strengthens and cleanses my mental state of being and increases my level of toughness. As with any exercise/fitness activity or sport, the benefits and the lessons taught are endless.

​My trailblazing and exploration is synonymous with my journey and the experiences and the challenges I face through my "unconventional" lifestyle. I am creating my own path and forging ahead through uncharted waters. Through it all, I am bound and determined to meet and conquer whatever obstacles are thrown my way, pushing through my own so-called limitations that are imposed by fear.
So here's to new adventures! May your life be filled with them!

Here are some of my favorite parks and hiking trails in our area and are perfect for walking, biking, hiking and/or running: Kings Mountain State Park, Crowders Mountain State Park, Riverwalk Trail, National Whitewater Center, and the Anne Springs Close Greenway.
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Do you have a favorite park or trail? Would love to hear from you!