My start of hiking

     With the start of college and moving two and a half hours away comes many new things to try. I decided that I wanted  to make the most of that and I will try everything that I can. 

    The first thing that I tried was hiking. My 4 friends, Abby, Annie, Corinne, Dean and I went to Cunningham falls state park and took the lower trail up to the water falls. The trail included lots of cool sights such as trees, flowers and even different animals such as frogs and snakes. It was a 1.5 mile hike so it was not too difficult for my first hike. I was lucky enough to go with friends who are well versed in hiking and had experience with the trail. They helped me feel confident with trying something new and made sure I did not get lost. 

    When we got up to the fall, we had to climb up rocks. This made me a little weary because climbing rocks was something I've never done and it seemed difficult. My friend Annie guided me through every step though, making sure I was comfortable and I did not fall off the rocks or into the water. It was a little scary but so rewarding when I reached the top and saw the beautiful picture of the fall, skies and trees together. It was so amazing to be able to sit on top of the rocks with my friends and enjoy each other's company while taking in the gorgeous view. Corinne made sure that everyone had water and gave everyone a snack, making sure that we were energized for the rest of the hike. There was no service, so I was forced to stay off of my phone and talk with my friends or sit in the silence and take in the beauty of nature. It brought me so much peace to disconnect and made me feel so thankful for the friends I have made at The Mount that have pushed me to try new things. 

    We stayed at the falls for an hour and then hiked back to our car. I was more confident in climbing the rocks and hiking back. I left this adventure feeling so grateful for all the new things I get to try and so excited to try new things. I will definitely go hiking again and I will even encourage my family and friends from home to go too. Hiking was a great experience for me that brought me great peace in my crazy life. This helped me reflect on my life and the time I take for peace and quiet. I do not spend a lot of time doing that but I want to try to find time each week where I can rest without going on my phone. This hike was a great experience and I can not wait to go on a new adventure with friends!