First Day Hike—Start the Year on the Right Foot—One Trail at a Time! There’s something magical about starting the year on a trail. Crisp winter air, the crunch of leaves underfoot, and the promise of new adventures ahead. For me, that magic began in 2018 at Shenandoah River State Park. It was my first First Day Hike, and little did I know it would spark a tradition that has shaped my New Year’s celebrations ever since. Why First Day Hikes…
Solo & Serene – Because being alone doesn’t mean being lonely—it means being free. Hi! My name is Dee and I am alone. Sounds like the start of a “Something Anonymous” meeting, right? Those meetings are about breaking habits, and they often bring mixed emotions—pride for taking control and embarrassment for needing help. Funny thing is, being alone can stir up those same feelings. There’s pride in holding out for the right person, refusing to settle just because you’re lonely….
Nature, Streams, and a Very Tired Pup There’s something magical about spontaneous adventures, especially when shared with a four-legged friend. Today, Tigger and I decided to escape the routine and explore Rolling Ridge Conservancy in Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia. The Journey Begins After about an hour’s drive through scenic countryside, we arrived at Rolling Ridge Conservancy ready for our outdoor adventure. The weather couldn’t have been more perfect—mid-to-high 70s with a gentle breeze rustling through the trees. Niles Cabin Trail…
Showing Up – As we approach the end of 2023, my mind shifts towards the beginning of a new year. The past six months of 2023 have been quite challenging. 2023 During the summer, my beautiful girl Rosie started showing signs of lethargy and lack of energy. She had a decreased appetite and was drinking more water than usual. Concerned, I took Rosie to the vet and she was diagnosed with low thyroid and Cushing’s disease. I started her on…
Welcome Winter! Winter is finally here, bringing with it a magical atmosphere and a sense of coziness. As the temperature drops and the snowflakes start to fall, it’s time to embrace all the joys that winter has to offer. Cozy Times! One of the best things about winter is the opportunity to indulge in warm and comforting activities. Whether it’s curling up by the fireplace with a good book, sipping hot cocoa while watching the snowfall, or enjoying winter sports…
Heading Out on an Adventure! I’m so excited for this adventure! I’ve been looking forward to it for several weeks now. This will be my fourth mission as a guardian. It’s truly an honor for me to be able to recognize and show gratitude for the sacrifice and service of our veterans. An Awesome Day!! On April 29, 2023, Honor Flight Top of Virginia (HFToV) successfully completed its 16th mission. Have you heard of Honor Flight before? The mission of…
Saturday was a fun and exciting day! I went to the Autumnfest in Woodstock for the BBQ competition and Wine Tasting then to Cedar Creek Battlefield for the reenactment of the Second Battle of Winchester. Autumnfest Shenandoah Autumnfest had a lot to see and do. There was a chainsaw carving demonstration, a BBQ tasting/competition and a wine tasting. The chainsaw carving was really interesting to watch. The intricacy of the carvings these artists were able to do was fabulous. I…
October is a month to celebrate. October kicks off the Holiday season by being the time of year for all of the Harvest Festivals and, of course, the fun of dressing up for Halloween. October is also Adopt-a-Shelter Dog month. Nine years ago on October 12th, I celebrated Adopt-a-Shelter Dog by bringing home my own special pound pup, a very beautiful American-Bulldog mix named Rosie. I can’t remember what my life was like without her. I’m not sure who rescued…
