Monday, January 5, 2009

FIRST HIKE OF THE YEAR

I got a call the other day from my nephew, Jason. He asked me if I wanted to go for a hike with him. I told him I would love to.

So, Sunday, Jason, Nicole (Jason's girlfriend), and Trinity came by early in the morning to pick me up.

We went to Laguna Coast Wilderness Park in Laguna Beach. Yes you read that sign right. There are Mountain Lions, Rattle Snakes, Poison Oak, Poisonous insects, lose rocks and rugged terrain there.

Thankfully we didn't run into any of that except some of the rugged terrain.


Most of the area is beautiful. We did come across tons and tons of nats at one point. I hate those little guys.

This is me, Nicole and Trinity shortly after we started our hike. Trust me, I didn't look like at the end of the hike. I was exhausted.


Trinity and Nicole smiling for the camera at one of our short breaks.



We saw some interesting things along the way. This cave was intriguing to us. We wondered what would be inside. Perhaps the sleeping Mountain Lion or bats? We didn't go up to find out.

There was beautiful green moss growing on the rocks. The color green was lovely with the sun shinning on. This picture just doesn't do the color justice.


Look at that rock. Looks like there is a face in it. See the two eyes and mouth? They were also caves. But there was a fence up so we couldn't go see what was in there.

This is Jason looking under fallen tree branches for snakes and/or lizards. While we did hear things we didn't see anything other then one little lizard that ran and hid right away.

We saw several different kinds of mushrooms growing.


Trinity and I thought Fairies may have been living near by as it looked like a place they would live. In fact, I'm sure we heard them singing and laughing at one point.

Well this rock must not have been moved in awhile. What's that saying? "A rolling stone gathers no moss". Well this one had lots of moss on it. Again, that pretty green that was growing all over it.

I have to admit, about an hour or so into our hike I was getting very very tired. I know I didn't take pictures of the areas that were steep but trust me, they were there. I thought I was going to die at one point!

This old gal isn't used to hiking! Since none of us had been here before we didn't know much further the trails went.


This was my stopping point. I saw the incline ahead of us and since we couldn't see how far or how steep it got I opted to turn around and go back the way we came in.

Trinity, Jason and Nicole were great sports! They didn't mind at all. They all said they were there to help me with my getting healthy program so if I was ready to go back they were fine.

They are all in great shape. They go hiking and bike riding all the time. I was the one who has to start off slow.

So back we went. All in all we hiked for about an hour and a half. Not bad for my first time. But I have to tell you, my legs were KILLING me. I wish I would have taken pictures to show you some of the steep parts but since I was about to pass out in those spots I didn't think about taking pictures then. Maybe next time.

Yes, there will be a next time. I had a blast and I am so happy I went. I had a wonderful time with everyone.

After we left we went down to the beach and ate at a healthy resturant. We sat outside and enjoyed the beautiful day.

So how is everyone else doing on their exercise plan? Don't forget that if you are going to join in the A BETTER ME group to email me tomorrow and let me know how much you lost or if you did your exercise. I want to post on Wed how everyone is doing.
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12 comments:

Darlene said...

You definitely have a beautiful area to go hiking or walking on your beaches. BEAUTIFUL!!!

Sometimes It's Good said...

I want to be in the group. I just started Weight Watchers and I'm not weighing in until Saturday. This is only my second day on the program but I'm doing well. I need to go hiking, too, though. I need that exercise!
Hugs, Susan

Lindsay-ann said...

Hi Joanne
Thanks for taking me to The Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. I loved seeing the beautiful countryside and the caves. The one that looks like a face is great.
Lindsay

Jean Tuthill said...

That sure is a beautiful place to hike, keep up the good work. You'll be a pro in no time. I have hiked a lot in my life, and I love it. Lately though, I have only hiked on my treadmill. Heehee. Beautiful Pictures!

Joyce's Journey said...

I weigh in at WW on Wednesday so I'll let you know then. I've been going for nice long, brisk walks and have been enjoying it (kinda). I do feel better so that's a good thing.

I'm very impressed with your hike. It looks absolutely beautiful there so that must have made it somewhat enjoyable. Good job Joanne!!

Glenda said...

It's always harder in the beginning. My legs would be sore as well.

Nice to have someone to walk with. Keep it up.

Ciao

Unknown said...

Your such a tease, it's too cold to get out here and take a hike! I didn't think your group wouldn't start till the 7th? Do I need to email you with my wish list of weight loss or anything?

Unknown said...

That is so sweet of them to think of you and take you with them! How fabulous. I love to go hiking, I haven't gone in a while, though so I would probably be right about your speed. We'd be perfect hiking partners, LOL!

Unknown said...

You will not believe this, but the word verication says "trail" REALLY! I thought that was tooooo cute!

CatHerder said...

Walking and riding our bikes is the only way hubby and i stay fit. Winter is so tough for us...we should move to a warmer climate like you...looks beautiful!

Penny from Enjoying The Simple Things said...

What a wonderful place to go hiking. We have mountain trails about 1 mile from my home. I love to hike! I really need to do more of it. My goal is to lighten up this year and that means weight wise too ;-)

Donna said...

Joanne, what a beautiful place to hike. And I am drooling over your CA weather.. We're expecting more snow/ice later today. Thank you for the sweet comment you left on my post about losing our three fur babies. I knew you would relate, being such an animal lover. We're so blessed to have them in our lives, aren't we? I'll bet the dream you had about your kitty was very comforting. I love it when I dream about my guys.

On a different note, great find at Target! Those aprons look like something from I Love Lucy, and you know how I love vintage 50's items!

Also, love all the linens and such that you found - you made out like a bandit!!

Donna @ An Enchanted Cottage