Tuesday, November 10, 2009




Got back from a 2 week trip to the South. Spending time with family, and friends, and got out to the Great Smokies for a 3 day hike. Less than 20 miles, but it was nice being in the mountains, surrounded by the Fall Colors. A lot of people out, day hikers, and a few overnighters like me, but my favorite times are one the trail alone. (The whoop and hollar of all the day trippers up to Mt. Le Conte was a bit much). I'm entertaining the idea of sometime in the next few years of doing the 70 mile through the Smokies. Not sure if it would be to relive old memories, or to open myself up to the moment.


Also, did Enjoy my trip up Round Mountain, near Roan Mountain near the end of my stay. One of my favorite hikes in the Appalachians. The trail went on and on behind me, but I had to head down.



And ... back in Portland. Something about the Fall, and the inertia of the darkened days that makes even the smallest task seem insurmountable. AAAhhh, the power to just power through on days like this. Sometimes, I wish I had that bit of chemical in my brain that some people have, that puts them into a constant state of euphoria and drive. Just take an pill, prozac, etc. Turn on, open out. Would be kinda easy, wouldn't it.
But would I be any more alive? Would I be experiencing life any deeper?

Instead, I'm planning for my trip to Ecuador next month. But .... Is that my pill?