Looking Forward to Summer 2020

It’s an interesting time to be separated from each other. Many of us have the same feelings- Endless things to think about but too little focus to go around. Time seems to be moving fast and slow all at once. Months are passing quickly but February seems like a lifetime ago. I’ve coped with it like everyone else and made bread. Focaccia bread being the best so far though there is plenty of time to try more. This one was easy to make and loaded with olive oil and garlic!

It’s been fun to get a chance to try new things at home, but it is difficult not being able to make plans for the future. I still see hiking as the best option for the summer, and I could really use some extended time outside! Hiking seems to be an ideal way to keep moving and have a limited impact on the places I travel through. I’ve been looking at different trails in the Smoky Mountains for a short trip over the next few weeks. I want to try out some new camping gear before venturing out on longer hikes. Hopefully that longer hike will be on the Colorado Trail later in the summer. Right now it’s too soon to tell, so I’m preparing as if there’s a chance. Which means new shoes!

I ordered these shoes last week after quite a bit of research regarding hiking boots vs. shoes. I landed on these Altra Lone Peak trail runners and I’m excited to try them out. They should last around 600 miles which would get me through the summer. My Dad requested a picture at mile 1 vs. one at mile 600 for comparison. So far so good! We’ll see what they look like by August.

I was able to get a little dirt on them this past weekend at Pokagon State Park in Northern Indiana. It was a beautiful weekend and a great way to enjoy the sun. The rain brought out a welcome mix of colors. There were hundreds of flowering trees and patches of wildflowers along the trail.

I expect quite a few State Park visits this summer. I’ll be sure to keep you posted!