A winter's walk...

After a stop at Young's Dairy (http://www.youngsdairy.com/home.html) for a juicy cheeseburger with bacon that made my tummy growl just looking at it, our group headed to Clifton Gorge and John Bryan State Park (http://ohiodnr.com/tabid/750/Default.aspx) outside of Yellow Springs for a hike.

I've been there in summer and now in winter and I must say that it is, without a doubt, one of the treasures of our state. If you go this blustery season, please wear appropriate footwear and take care; the very things that make the park so lovely, also could make it dangerous on slippery days.
If you happen to have a dear one who shares your life, I can think of few lovelier places for a stroll hand in hand. If you are walking solo, enjoy the hike with a good friend.

Either way, you may want to consider a stop at the Clifton Mills for breakfast or lunch (http://www.cliftonmill.com/restaurant.htm), it is within hiking distance of both John Bryan State Park and adjacent Clifton Gorge Nature Preserve (http://ohiodnr.com/?TabId=882).

As we paused overlooking the water,
I felt a slight wistfulness come over me.

If you are someone who has gotten teary eyed over Folger's commercials
and find yourself suddenly understanding those "older" emotional adults from your childhood.. perhaps you understand how I felt.

It was a moment to freeze in time,
to treasure close to the heart on hard days.

Beside me stood a very nice man
who drove an hour
to meet me
so that together
we could go somewhere
he knew we'd both enjoy.

We share a love of the outdoors
and a sense of adventure.

I treasure our developing friendship.

In the busy world with it's ups and downs,
it is nice to be able to stand in the forest with a friend.

To feel the outside world slip away...
and...
even if only for a little while
to relax in the awe inspiring atmosphere
offered in one of the most beautiful parks
I have ever been blessed to explore.

Now and always,
I wish for you...

Beauty
Peace
Friendship