First Day Hike

New Year's Day dawned cold, damp, and windy. Not exactly the kind of day I'd pick for hiking, but since I wanted to participate in the state park's "First Day Hike" I braved the weather and headed to Pinnacle Mountain State park

Now, before you say "oh, you should never hike alone" let me explain. I was alone in a park with many, many others. So full in fact, that I had to park in the overflow parking area. It was so good to see families and groups out enjoying our state parks!

And, for those of you who know Pinnacle Mountain and it's trails, I did not climb the mountain!! Since I've been a little under the weather since Christmas I choose the Kingfisher Trail that is paved and flat. It winds beside the Maumelle River with large cypress trees, which I love! I walked the trail twice. I find that if I turn around and walk the way I came I see so many things I missed. To be honest I'll probably never climb the mountain trails again. My knees are just too old!!

It's damp in this wetland area, which creates great surfaces for lichen to grow. I didn't notice this log until I was on my way out. There's the reason for turning around and rewalking the trail.

I heard a small airplane in the distance and happened to look up. At first I thought he might be having trouble as black smoke pillowed from the tail area. Then I noticed he was doing tricks, rolling and spiraling. He was gone for a while and then came back right over the mountain top. I snapped this picture, but wished I'd been just a little more patient, because he drew a heart shape over the mountain with his smoke! So cool, but my camera wasn't quick enough to get the whole heart.

As I mentioned. I parked in the overflow parking area. I've never been on that road before. As I was turning into the area, I noticed this pretty red barn. Who knew!! I've been coming to Pinnacle Mountains for years and just a few yards down a different road and I spot something new! My first surprise of the year!

Even though it was cold, it was a great day to get out and enjoy nature! We are so blessed with nature's beauty in Arkansas.

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I wanted to take a minute to thank each of you who stop by here, read my words, and look at the pictures I share. A couple of posts ago I mentioned that I wasn't sure I'd continue this blog. Your thoughts on my blog overwhelmed me! I am so grateful to have such a wonderful group of friends who drop by!

I do like to blog, I do like to share my pictures, and of course, I do love to read your comments. But, even without the encouraging comments I would have decided to continue. I like my space here. I'm still thinking on how often I'll blog and what I'll be blogging about.

Anyway, once again thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kindness and friendship!

Happy New Year to each of you!

May this year bring you joy and be full of wonderful memories!