Adventures of a Tribe

Hiking Lower Palisades

Posted on October 17, 2015

Our hike from the Lower Palisades was so beautiful, and exactly what I needed. The beauty there filled my reservoirs to overflowing as I immersed myself in the peace that being in nature brings me.

ZoAnn’s 90 year old Dad lead the way and impressed us all with his speed and energy. At times he jogged the trail and the rest of the time he walked at an extremely rapid pace for the entire 6 miles.

The creatures did what they do best, which is clown around keeping everyone entertained.

The trail meandered through pines standing tall and proud, aspens, maples and sumac reaching out and holding on to their last yellow and red colors of Fall. Thousands of fallen leaves covered the ground like a freshly laid carpet, already decomposing into a thick and rich compost, where morels will burst their way through in the Spring. The beauty of it all is that in this breathtaking scene of what some may say is death and decay, is actually promise of new life.

I am so grateful for the peace that nature fills me with.  In it I feel the immense love of my Maker, as well as a priceless closeness with Jan and Daddy. I know that Mommy felt it too.

My sweet friend ZoAnn has stood by my side for so many years now, lifting my chin to see her smiling face and beauty in the day when I felt like there was nothing good left, as well as one who I have laughed with till my sides hurt. She is one who I will always love and respect and forever stand in awe of.

The landscape opened wide and beautiful on our way home, bearing more of Mother Natures soul. I feel so refreshed and clean, tears washed and aching soothed as I lay down to rest tonight. Life, is such a wondrous gift.