Missing in Action

I’ve been missing in action lately because I’ve been traveling. Yes, traveling to these beautiful places in nature even during this Coronavirus pandemic. We are experiencing daily spikes in the number of new virus cases in Arizona. Many are spending more time outside, visiting lakes and other local areas of interest. One of the places I recently visited was Havasupai Falls in northwestern Arizona. It’s approximately a 13-mile hike to the Falls. Along the trail, I passed wild horses and donkeys grazing on shrub scattered on a nearby mountain ridge and magnificent tall clay-covered rock overhangs. The trail is also used by the locals to transport goods to their villages. It is common courtesy to step aside and let these pack horses and the men on horseback pass on way to their destinations. Havasupai means “people of blue-green waters.” There are several falls along the way where the invigorating blue-green sprays from the fast-moving water cools your body that’s been sweat-soaked from the Arizona sun. You’ll also pass through some caves that will eventually lead you to a sun-bright opening of lush trees and pools of flowing water. Locals and tourists often bathe and swim in these pools created by the falls.

Our governor has advised seniors and those with compromised immunity systems to stay home as much as possible while we are a hotspot for this virus. I’m in my 70’s and definitely not a seasoned hiker, so I have been hiking a little each day via my treadmill. That’s right, I’m hiking to Havasupai Falls via a virtual trail video that I found on YouTube. I recently bought an inexpensive treadmill so I could keep moving during this pandemic. One of my main requirements was that it had a tablet holder. The treadmill came with an app to subscribe to monthly paid training videos, but I bypassed that and found these amazing free treadmill trail videos. I have had few opportunities to travel during my life, so I often refer to myself as a “mental” traveler, traveling to beautiful places vicariously through books, movies, and now these hiking videos. My dream is to build up stamina to be able to do some outdoor hiking on our Arizona trails once the threat of this virus has lowered the curve and we have cooler temperatures. For me, these hiking videos are very inspirational and motivating. There are trails all around the world that are available to view for free via YouTube. Another favorite of mine is The Roman Forum hike by ProWalks. You’ll walk among the tourists as you travel along the Via Sacra (the main street of ancient Rome) on your way to view the ancient temples and the Colosseum. You’ll also be treated to historical facts as you reach your step-goal for the day. Each day, I can’t wait to see what’s around the next bend.

When I’m not enjoying these beautiful scenic hikes, I’ve also been deep cleaning (cleaning out every nook, cranny, shelf, drawer, etc.) in a couple of rooms in our home. I hope you are all well and staying safe. Take care.