I was excited to lead a women's hike on June 2, National Trails Day! National Trails Day is an annual initiative of the American Hiking Society to encourage everyone to experience the great outdoors. Events are held across the country. We explored the lovely Mountain Loop Trail at the Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area in Hillsborough, N.C. This scenic trail goes through the woods, Continue Reading
Photo tour: A gorgeous spring walk at Duke Gardens
On a lovely mid-April Saturday, I went to one of the best places in this part of North Carolina for a beautiful spring walk: Sarah P. Duke Gardens. Located on the campus of Duke University in Durham, this gorgeous facility boasts 55 acres, and five miles of walking paths on a varied terrain. The Gardens are comprised of four sections: Historic Gardens, Doris Duke Center and Gardens, H.L. Continue Reading
Photo tour: A winter hike at Blackwood Farm Park in Hillsborough, NC
Today, my son and I took the opportunity of a beautiful, mild Saturday morning to visit one of Orange County's newer parks, Blackwood Farm Park. Located next to I-40 between Hillsborough and Chapel Hill, N.C., the park is 152 acres of forest trails and open spaces situated on an historic farm property. There are currently four miles of hiking trails, a picnic shelter with tables, and a pond Continue Reading
How to stay on track with diet and exercise while traveling, visiting family
I love the holidays, especially the opportunity to take a road trip to see family. I always come home with wonderful memories. But I'd also usually bring back a bloated, hurting tummy and an extra five pounds. On the road, there aren't many healthy food options as it's a couple of states of a mostly rural route from my house to my hometown. Being off my regular eating schedule, dining at Continue Reading
Tranquility in 30 minutes: A quick forest hike at Eno River State Park
The Japanese have a term, Shinrin-yoku, that means “forest bathing” — a visit to the forest for relaxation, a chance to stroll through nature and take in the atmosphere for one’s well-being. Walking in the forest is refreshing for your body and soul. On an early morning in late October, my son and I took a walk at Eno River State Park. We didn't have much time, because he had an Continue Reading
Photo tour: A hike at beautiful Stone Mountain State Park, NC
Disclaimer: This post contains Amazon affiliate links. On Labor Day, I had the pleasure of spending a gorgeous afternoon doing two favorite things: Spending time with both of my kids, and visiting one of North Carolina's lovely mountain parks. My daughter and son are in their 20s, with their own full lives and careers, so I treasure any time it works out that we can all get together and Continue Reading
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