Before I “retired” I used to fantasize about getting my weekly rhythms back to a place where I could go out hiking once a week. It’s really good for my mental and spiritual health. At previous points in my life, I used to be able to make this happen. Of course, I didn’t have a child then.

The other day I realized that the month is almost over and I haven’t been for a hike since sometime in February. I also have been dealing with a bit of a monkey mind lately and I think the two are connected.

So I made it a priority to get out today and to take my nervous dog with me.

We went up into the Santa Catalina mountains outside of town and parked at Molino Basin. From there we got on the Arizona trail.

It was such a beautiful morning – blue sky, spring flowers, sunshine, trickling water, and cool breezes.

And my dog, Rosie, was so good on the leash. This is the first mountain hike she’s been on with me. She is a rescue dog who has not had much leash experience in her five years. She goes crazy – jumping and twirling on her leash – when she sees other dogs when we go walking in our neighborhood. I was really glad she didn’t act that way on the trail. (She may not have had the extra energy.)

I am really glad that I made the effort to get us out this morning. Sunshine and exercise are so good for my brain function.