First Backpacking Adventure

I like to think that we are in Pretty good physical condition.  I run 3-4 times weekly, compete in Half Marathons, it is nothing to hike 10 miles on any given weekend day, however I wasn’t quite prepared for Backpacking.

My husband and I camp at least once or twice a month in our little Teardrop camper, so it wasn’t such a bizarre idea when I decided we should start backpacking.  We did a lot of research and went out and bought all our gear.  Then set out for our first what I thought was going to be a simple and easy first trip out.  Our first adventure was only a 15 mile loop, however the temps were in the upper 90’s.

Things I learned:

• Bug repellent is definitely your friend.
• Fresh Fruit is to heavy and I don’t need it.
• Extra set of clothes is dumb!
• Why did I bring a Hammock and a Tent, Really?
• Honestly I didn’t need deodorant.
• Less is Definitely More!

We honestly did a really good job selecting gear and making sure we had lightweight stuff, however I was being prissy and brought a bunch of crap I didn’t need.  My pack weighted 26lbs for an overnight trip (water and food included), that is honestly ridiculous.  I have cleaned out and lightened up and it down to about 20lbs, which I think will be much more enjoyable for our next outing.

Overall it was a good trip and I am looking forward doing it again.

My Fitness Journal Weekly Review

Hot and Sweaty!

Overall this week hasn’t been a horrible fitness week.  I couldn’t have pushed myself a bit harder in the running area, but the heat is crushing my determination!  🙂

Monday:  Wake up at 5:00 and go for a 30 minute run.  Weekdays I am short on time, so I set a time and not distance. This helps keep me on schedule and on time for work!  Strength Training in the gym at lunch.  Chest and shoulders day, I really have a strong hatred for Bench Presses!   The other exercises we did that day are just a blur.  hehe

Tuesday:  Wake up at 5:00/ 30 minute run.  Lunch time = Strength Training it was back day.  Dead Lifts were on the agenda this day.  These are actually my favorite of the different tortures my trainer comes up with.

Wednesday:  Today is HITT cardio and ABS day at the gym.  If you were wondering I do believe Plank is a 4 letter word!

Thursday:  Woke up at 5:00 A.M. to a thunderstorm, went back to sleep for another hours.  Good thing because it was Leg day at the gym.  In case you were wondering it is Sunday and my legs do still hurt.  I don’t care what anyone says doing squats with a bar and weights on it is a form of extreme torture.

Friday:  Slept through alarm. No run for me.  😦  It was arm day at the gym, it was pretty chill and nothing to crazy.

Saturday: REST DAY!!!!!!!   Did a little hiking and rock climbing with the husband and dogs.  Great day just so hot we couldn’t play outside long enough.

Silvermine Recreation Area

Sunday:  Got up and ran only 3 miles.  The heat and humidity was horrible but, I feel so much better for making myself run even in extreme temperatures.  I just know when it starts to cool down some and Marathon season kicks into overdrive I will be ready!

Remember tomorrow starts a new week and new opportunities to be strong!

The Great Smokey Mountains

Early last fall we had the privilege of spending a few days in The Great Smokey Mountains.  I  immediately fell in love with it’s magnificent beauty. I am by far a professional photographer, but I wanted to share a few pictures we took with our phones while there.

Just a wild Elk living the dream.  He was completely oblivious to the fact we were invading his territory.  We quietly took our photos and left him in his tranquility.

On top of Cling-mans Dome

Me and Hubby on top of Cling-mans Dome

If you ever get a chance to go you must not forget to climb up to Cling-mans Dome.  It was fantastic and this is coming from the girl that’s completely scared of heights.

Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Next stop a little hiking!  We didn’t get to explore much of the park, because we had our fur kids with us.  Due to bears dogs aren’t allowed on many trails.  We were kinda bummed, but understood!

Ray and Rowdy

Just Posing on a Rock!

Last but not least we ran into part of the Appalachian Trail.  One day I will would love to do a through hike on this fierce trail.

Those are our happy faces!

Appalachian Trail

Appalachian Trail

I hope you enjoyed a glimpse into the Park.  We have many more camping, hiking and Park Adventures to share.

Let me introduce myself!

I am brand new to blogging and I wanted a place to come and share my life, the good and bad parts.  Hopefully my journey through life will help inspire others and help keep me sane along the way.

Let me introduce myself.  I am a wife, mother, employee, runner, hiker, beginner mountain biker and overall outdoor enthusiast.   I have two fur children (poodle and Italian Greyhound), which make me smile everyday.  My husband is the best and I would be nothing without him.  Last but the most ever present in my life is my 20 year old daughter.  I love her with every bit of my being.  She is battling Schizophrenia and it is the beast that just won’t go away.