Where Love Heals

Yesterday, I woke up feeling fierce. The sun was shining, warm and golden, and for the first time in over 340 days, I was heading back to the Harpeth River. I had missed that quiet solitude, the way hiking alone lets the world fall away. The only sounds are the wind through the trees, water trickling downstream, maybe the faint laughter of people in kayaks or canoes. It’s pure calm. I’ve longed for this feeling.

I needed it. I craved the sun on my skin, the fresh air in my lungs, the peace that only comes from being fully present in nature.

I made a grilled cheese, filled my thermos with water, grabbed a bag of chips from the gas station. I didn’t bother getting all dolled up. A quick shower, dried hair, a bandana to keep it in place, and I was ready. Keys in hand, I headed out.

The windows were down, my “Mellow Me” playlist on Spotify loud enough to fill the car with warmth and rhythm. Just driving there felt like victory—doing something I’d let fear hold me back from for almost a year felt exhilarating.

The parking lot was nearly empty, save for one truck pulling away. I grabbed my backpack and stepped into the adventure.

For a fleeting moment, fear tried to creep back in, whispering that I wasn’t ready. But I refused. Not today. Not ever again.

I pushed forward, and the rest… well, the pictures speak for themselves.

But I will say this:

The moment in your life when you can go on an adventure alone and not feel lonely—that is priceless.

The moment you stop letting fear control your choices—that is the moment you truly begin living.

JMS

Hiking, Country living, Sunshine, Animals and Nature….are just a few examples of perfection.