Take a Hike

Over the past couple of years I have developed a love of hiking. It helps that I live in an area where trails abound and the scenery is beautiful. To the west I have the coast, coastal mountains and plenty of wildlife refuges. To the east I have mountains, forests, waterfalls and rivers.

I will hike in any season and in any weather. Hiking does something for me that nothing else can. It also has been a great activity to pursue as a family.

Our kids have been hiking since before they could even walk. Not only is it good exercise, it's an amazing way to spend time as a family. We explore, discover, tell stories, play games, laugh, cry, eat, get lost, experience nature up close and personal and see amazing things. We get hot, cold, muddy, wet and tired.

We get away from our home and our stuff and spend time with each other in nature. It really doesn't get any better than that. I hope when the girls are older that they look back on these times with fondness. I hope they will call us up and ask us to join them and their kids on hikes.

With my camera in hand, I've discovered a whole new aspect of hiking....looking closely and capturing the beauty of nature. I look at things differently when I look through the camera lens. Instead of seeing dried up weeds or bare trees, I see beauty in the form and shape.

I challenge you to spend some time outside this week - go for a hike, or at least a walk!

I'm linking up with Lisa at Four Simply Living for Life Through the Lens