Betsy and George at Short Springs State Natural Area. February 14, 2009.
As I mentioned yesterday, Betsy and I did some hiking and waterfalling on Valentine’s Day. It’s becoming something of a tradition for us. In February there tends to be more water at some of the smaller waterfalls and the bare trees make it easier to find a waterfall when bushwhacking.
The longest hike we had on Saturday was at the Short Springs State Natural Area near Manchester, Tennessee. Short Springs has a well-developed trail system which is both well-maintained and well-marked. We hiked the Machine Falls Loop, which got us quite close to the base of Machine Falls.
Most of the time the trail was very moderate, although the descent into the canyon containing the waterfall was very steep. There were several stone steps that would be difficult for my short-legged beautiful bride to climb on the way up. To continue around the loop would be a longer hike, but what would the climb up out of the canyon be like? We didn’t know.
But one of the nice things about hiking is that you meet some of the nicest people on the trail. While we were admiring the stream below the falls, we met a boy scout leader who was familiar with the area. (He’s the one who took the picture above). He recommended continuing around the loop. The ascent up Jesus Hill — so called because he felt that would be where he would meet Jesus when climbing up — was steep but contained no rocks to climb over. We made it up the hill (slowly) and had a nice hike around the rest of the loop.
Most of the time when hiking we have the trail to ourselves, which we very much enjoy — it’s a great way to feel close to God’s beautiful creation. But once in a while we meet another hiker who shows us another aspect of that beauty.
Senior Moments 
February 16, 2009 at 5:29 am |
So nice to see a picture of Betsy! From the story and photo, I can tell you are a couple in looove! So nice to read about your experiences and your travels! Wish you both a wonderful day!
And thank you for all your kind comments on my blog!
February 16, 2009 at 8:03 am |
What a great tradition. Thats a great photo of you and Betsy. I don’t know of any hiking trails around Tulsa. Kinda ashame though. Hope you took pictures of the waterfalls you saw. =) Hope you have a wonderful day.
February 16, 2009 at 9:23 am |
This sounds like a great day. I love the fact that the two of you get out often and are moving….especially to Jesus Hill. How perfect is that? Did you see him???
Take care,
suz
February 16, 2009 at 10:40 am |
George: I’m so glad you two had a great trip.
February 16, 2009 at 11:26 am |
It sounds like you two had a lot of fun! I love the photo – it shows you’re having a good time together!!!
February 16, 2009 at 11:27 am |
Best way to spend the day~
doing what you love with the one you love~
February 16, 2009 at 12:36 pm |
What a great post today George. Sharing God’s beauty with another so considerate and friendly. Glad you had a grand time and thanks for sharing.
February 16, 2009 at 4:26 pm |
You must had great time. I wish you continue this tradition. Great photo.
February 16, 2009 at 4:45 pm |
How nice the two of you could hike together without anyone else around. Looks like a wonderful peaceful place,
February 16, 2009 at 5:40 pm |
I just love going to places like those, especially when there’s no one else around.
February 16, 2009 at 5:48 pm |
Great post and picture, George!!
Sounds like a wonderful day.
Take care
February 16, 2009 at 7:50 pm |
Sounds like a wonderful hike. There is nothing like getting out hiking or walking to realize what a beautiful world God has given us. 🙂
February 16, 2009 at 8:18 pm |
To be alone in nature is one of the best experiences.To have a loved one to share that moment is fantastic.Glad you ha a great time.
Blessings,Ruth
February 16, 2009 at 8:28 pm |
Sweet photo George!
You don’t look all bundled up. I would think it would have been rather cold.
February 16, 2009 at 8:34 pm |
How fun to see a photo of the two of you. I agree that while hiking (or walking along the beach) I meet the nicest people.
Hugs and blessings,
February 16, 2009 at 9:18 pm |
What wonderful memories you are creating. I loved yesterday’s pic of the waterfall, too. I miss the waterfalls of north Georgia. We get excited in central Indiana if we see an overpass! Blessings, Karen
February 16, 2009 at 9:23 pm |
I’m glad you had a good time..It looks like the weather was decent too..Michelle
February 16, 2009 at 10:32 pm |
That sounds like lot of fun! Nice shot of both of you!
February 16, 2009 at 11:05 pm |
Glad you made it up that hill. Those hills are hard to climb back up. I went on a hike to a water fall, it was all downhill going there, coming back up, in the summer, I thought I would die. It was very steep and hot. I am glad I saw the water fall though. Sometimes they are worth it.
February 17, 2009 at 11:28 am |
The two of you are so cute together. Sounds like you had a great hike and a very nice Valentines Day. 🙂
February 17, 2009 at 9:39 pm |
I love this idea as a Valentine’s Day tradition!
February 18, 2009 at 4:40 am |
Hello George.
It is very refreshing and inspiring to how You are enjoying Your life there with traditions. Although I am late (some sickeness), I wish happy Valentines Day to both of You.
Regards Carriz.
February 20, 2009 at 3:38 pm |
What a wonderful way to spend Valentine’s day. I enjoyed your report of the trip very much. You always write so beautifully of your Betsy. It is so heart warming in this cynical world of ours. The photo is so uplifting too. You both look so sweet and happy in it. One for the family album for sure. You are truly blessed for having eachother and this picture is true evidence of that fact.