Stimpson Family Reserve

Our hike today

Although yesterday was a beautiful sunny day, today was the exact opposite: we woke to rain, with lots of big puddles showing that it rained quite a lot overnight. So, we decided to go to one place that is lovely, even in the rain: the Stimpson Family Nature Reserve.

Humans have been on a trajectory of distraction and overconsumption for centuries, and we had to reach the breaking point for the great transformation to begin. We’ve become completely misaligned—with ourselves and the earth. Now is the time to begin the process of coming back to ourselves and to one another. This is what forest bathing is all about. ―Julia Plevin

Yes. We went on a sweet forest bathing experience, and for the first part of it, we were actually in close familiarity with the wet side of things. It didn't take away anything from the moments we spent walking in this beautiful place, with ancient trees surrounding us.

Bits of sunshine filtering through the trees

We didn't have a long or arduous hike in this magical place, but more one of contemplation and enjoying the incredible views. Dogs are not allowed here, and so this is not a place people come to walk their dogs, but after awhile we did see lots of other fellow travelers who were taking their own spiritual bath in the forest.

Geneva Pond

We reached the only actual destination point on the reserve, which is the pretty pond that lies on the far end of the acreage. There were moments when we thought the clouds would clear off and give us a sunny day, but as you can see in this picture, all of the recent rain kept the clouds building. We even had the occasional sprinkle, but it would be gone in a flash.

Melanie heading back to the trailhead

It was a wonderful way to refresh our spirits and made for another lovely outing with a good friend. We only covered just under five miles in total (not much for us), but it was actually just right for today. I am well bathed and enjoying my comfortable chair at home, glad for the Thursday adventure.

:-)