Going on a hike?

Do you visit state parks in your area? Luckily I am surrounded by many of them. I am seriously thinking about visiting one this weekend for a hike. The closest one to me is Cedars of Lebanon State Park. They have several hikes to choose from and the park only about 15 minutes away from my home. Now I have to decide when I'm doing this. I'm thinking either Friday or Saturday morning will work out fine. Essentials for my adventure: healthy snacks, water, fully charged MP3 player and comfortable shoes.

I'm trying to stay in shape for my upcoming events. My next 5k is only 29 days away. I am doing the 5k on the same day as the Nashville Women's Half Marathon. My goal is to finish in :45. That is 5 minutes under the 5k I did last weekend. I didn't run as much as I wanted to during that race, so if I continue training, I feel I can do that. It's my favorite time of year. I have 3 events planned for the fall. They are spread out about a month apart, giving me plenty of time to train. As long as I continue to improve, I'll be happy. The transition from walking to running isn't as easy as I had hoped. But I'm not giving up! Here is one of my favorite quotes/pictures I found on tumblr. This keeps me motivated.

Happy Trails!!

Starting the day off right

It's Saturday morning and I began the day with a 3 mile walk. I got up and made my coffee so it would be ready when I get back, made a protein shake for breakfast, filled my water bottle and headed out.

I found a walking trail at a local city park. I enjoyed it. I got there early enough so there weren't very many people and I beat the soccer crowd. This park is only a few miles away from my house, so I plan on visiting there often.

I came back home to enjoy my iced coffee while sitting on my deck. The weather was mild and the breeze was blowing. It felt really good since I had worked up a sweat from my walk/jog session.

Now I'm ready to enjoy the day! I'm planning on attending a church service later tonight then I'll be working on my side dishes for my family dinner tomorrow.

What do you have planned for today?

Visit to Fall Creek Falls

My mother, and a few other ladies at my church drove up to Fall Creek Falls on Saturday moring. It is a state park located approxiately and hour and a half from my home. The women at our church went there for a weekend retreat. I am so glad I went, since I had such a rough week last week with my negativity and feelings of sadness. It was a very uplifting day with other women. I'm just sorry I didn't sign up for the entire weekend experience. I came home feeling more blessed than ever and much more positive about my life. Thank you Lord!

If you're interested in state parks,(I recommend this if you love the outdoors) here is the Fall Creek Falls website for more information.

It was a beautiful day and in between sessions many of us went out exploring around the falls. I took a few pictures to share...

Ladies Retreat sessions - pwerful lessons, prayer and singing praises to the Lord while looking at the wonder beauty that surrounded us.



Fall Creek Falls




Beautiful view!

Me standing close to the falls - a perfect photo opportunity!

I picked up some brochures before leaving because this place sounds like a great place for a weekend getaway with my sweetheart. :) And since I get discounts at TN state parks, another great reason to book a trip!