Back in the saddle

Today I hit the trail again for the first time in what has seemed like an eternity, yet it has only been a few weeks. I needed the hike.

Mark and I had planned to meet Sunday morning at 8am at Mount Saint Francis. No actual plan on distance or time, but the idea of “cutting back to the car” if I needed to, seemed like a safe plan.

As I arrived Mark asked if I was feeling okay and added, “if something is wrong I am not dragging you back to the car, I will call for a rescue helicopter”. I appreciate his love, friendship and sense of humor. Not knowing how my body would react, we headed off.

As we ambled along the gravel path, past the water tower, then the field, we approached trail 10. Our eyes scanned the field to the left, forest to the right and trail below for any proper photography subjects. We talked and caught up on how both we and our families we doing. I have noticed with Mark the conversation we do not force it. We tackle a variety of subjects, but neither of us judge each other, and I know I genuinely care what he has to say.

We entered the woods, noticing a slight drop in an already cool 43 degree temperature. The woods provided a bit more humidity and coolness than even a few steps back in the field. Recent rains had softened the ground, and local volunteers have cleanly cleared the path of fallen leaves and branches. This train and descent was easy, but with my recent illness and weight loss, I would test my stamina today, and simple things like a cleared path before me helped lessen the struggle.

I followed a familiar path back to the back of the property, made the turn and headed back in the car’s direction. I felt weaker than normal, but honestly not bad. I kept a good pace and tried not to stop much. This was a trail I had been on hundreds of times, but today felt different. The air was crisp and sweet smelling. Each tree and leave seemed to be new, and the familiar path below me felt like I had not been on it in years.

I snagged a few shots today, but like my hiking, my photographic eye had taken a hit. I wasn’t in the mood to shoot. Mark mirrored that sentiment. I was there for the experience. Nature was filling my lungs and scrubbing my soul.

We took our time and eventually made it back to the car. We hiked about 3.28 miles, but today was not about distance. I spent time with my dear friend and I recharged my batteries. I have mentioned many times what hiking does for me physically, mentally and spiritually. None of that was more clear and needed than today.

Until next time,

Tim (a. k. a. Kilmer)

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