My Niece Sarah

It would seem that as the snow melts my heart lightens but the weight is still on my shoulders and there is only one thing thing that change this…hiking. I thought I would just stay in and read hiking articles and blogs as well as catch up on new gear developments…this was a bad idea. This is my second year of doing this and I can’t do it next year. After roaming free through the forests of Western Pennsylvania you cannot just stay inside throughout the winter. It gets worse with every year and I liken it to being a caged animal…it doesn’t feel good.

The one thing that improved my sanity, well, kept me from going over the edge besides reading about hiking and camping was my granddaughter (born Jan 2nd, 2010) and my younger nieces and nephews. I got to see my niece Sarah play indoor soccer for the first time and she was beyond amazing. She has game!! But then I am a little biased. Her coaches, and even the referees’ opinions are the same and they matter. She has a gifted mind and talent in whatever sport she chooses and it is always a pleasure to watch her. The other 4 nieces (Allie, Lizzie, Zoe, and Quin, same family) all display an athletic gift and mental prowess and I have enjoyed every possible minute that I have had the chance to watch them grow up.

My nephew Tyler is turning out to be a “rough and tough” little man. The boy is hardcore and he never fails to inform me of this every time I see him. I see him a little more than the girls and watching him grow up has been interesting to say the least. At 3 years old, almost 4, he is quite the physical young man. He likes boxing, fighting, racing and has an appreciation of anything that has a motor in it…a genetic transfer from his father.

My Grandaughter Payton

The other “distraction” came at the beginning of this year, my granddaughter Payton. She is one of many reasons that I bought a new camera and camcorder this year and even at 2 months old I can see her own distinct personality already. She has a tendency to be vocal as well as spirited. I don’t think I have ever seen a tear roll down her cheek and even though some, or many, would say she was crying, I honestly believe she is trying to voice her displeasure with whatever she is displeased about. I don’t know which way she will go as she grows up but I can guarantee I will be there, cameras in hand, to grab every moment of her growing up.

In another week, or a little longer I will be getting things ready as well as hopefully getting some day hikes in. I am itching for the spring and cannot wait to hit the trail.