Life takes twists and turns and we grow and learn. We either enjoy the ride or fight it. Either way, life happens. The choice is ours.

The latest adventure has been hiking and backpacking. It’s a relatively new adventure but there have been great strides. Starting with a relaxed, exploring walk on a Sunday to some strenuous challenges.

A couple of months from a 4 mile easy walk to  hiking up Hermits Peak and La Luz Trail and an overnight backpacking adventure in the Pecos wilderness.

The mountains are spectacular with brilliant colors, fresh air, crisp breezes,  peaceful, meditative and healing.

The sense of adventure gives energy and a slight sense of the unknown. Each trail is a new experience.

At first the body is taking a toll with the much needed exercise. Sore muscles the next day letting us know that we pushed hard and are awakening muscles we didn't even know we had. It's amazing what the body can take. Challenging it with harder and/or longer hikes every time takes a little planning but well worth it. 

Each hike is a new learning experience. We learn to be more prepared and learn a little more of what we can expect. 

The backpacking is definitely a different experience for all of us. Sleeping in the wilderness, away from civilization and not in a camp ground or in an RV. 

Backpacking is a whole different ballgame. Everything you need you carry with you in a backpack so you learn to pack light and only take the essentials. More time is spent enjoying nature. Setting up camp is pitching tents and unrolling the sleeping bag. That's it. We take a little "stove" (the size of my coffee cup), that boils water in a few minutes and we prepare a hot meal. No cooking no cleaning. The meal is freeze dried and we only need to pour boiling water in the pouch it comes in. Eat right out of the pouch. No dishes to wash and it taste great! 

We tend to complicate life. There are many lessons to learn in the wilderness. Some key lesson learned so far; keep things simple, enjoy what God provides, take time to notice the flowers, respect nature, look out for each other, be prepared and enjoy the quiet.

More will follow as time permits. Until then, listen your inner voice and spend some time in the Silence. Take time to enjoy God's peace.