Hiking in the Rain

Some days you just get antsy and have to get out of the house. That's the way I felt yesterday. It was a dreary, gloomy day and was drizzling rain but I knew if I stayed inside, I'd get depressed and I didn't want that. After talking with my husband, we decided to pack a picnic lunch and head for our closest state park. Weekdays aren't normally busy. 

Pulling out our big Buccee's insulated bag, I quickly made sandwiches, bagged up some chips, gathered fruit, and slid drinks into the bag. Next, I tucked in paper plates and napkins. Within fifteen minutes the bag was packed, I'd grabbed a jacket, and we were out the door. 

It was spitting rain as we drove to the park but we didn't mind. The weather app said it'd be letting up soon so we were hopeful. 

We arrived at the park and half an hour later and found hardly a soul visiting. Our stomachs were growling so first stop would be a covered pavilion where we could eat without getting wet. It was nice to feel the cool breeze as we downed lunch. When we were through, we drove to a trailhead, pulled out our hiking poles, and started out. 

The forest floor was damp from earlier rains but we didn't mind. I wished I'd thought to put on my hiking boots instead of wearing my new Hokas. I knew I could wash them but didn't want to get them covered in mud. 

We hiked a few miles then stopped for a break. The sky overhead had turned a brilliant blue and the moss on the trees was a neon green. Tiny purple violets dotted the woodland floor as birds overhead called to each other. 

Being outside always makes me feel at peace and brings back so many childhood memories of swinging on vines over creeks or playing Army with my siblings. Those were such happy, carefree days. 

We stayed in the park until 5:00 pm then headed home. It had been a very relaxing day, one I desperately needed. 

I'm so thankful we buy annual park passes. As seniors, we can get them at a discount. Twenty-five dollars is a small price to pay for unlimited visits and we have so many parks to choose from. That makes me extremely happy.