Phew, It was Hard!

This hike was a lot harder. 

Every little bit of me is sore. 

But finished with no problem. One hiker had an issue keeping up so she's going to need to qualify before she gets at this hike level with the club again. Another hike leader stayed back with her for most of the hike. 

I'm taking a complete day off from working out. Even my arms are sore. 

The views were beautiful and the trails had vibrant red and orange trees. No pictures though -- phone was in my backpack in a plastic bag. Two of the hikers collect leaves for an art project because they were that special.

Rain held off, but threatened the entire time. The wind was brutal. Only down branches, no trees. The entire hike is on the AT and it's well maintained and marked (which is nice with leaves covering the path).

The last 15 miles of the drive was mountain road with crazy turns and switchbacks. Dang. Steep and leaf covered too. Yesterday was an adventure. 

I'm proud for making this a goal.

Proud that I completed it. 

Proud that I did BOTH hikes.

Proud that I drove the crazy drive.

Proud I found the trailhead. 

Lots of FS things to notice and appreciate. 

It's Monday and the first Monday of the month -- 5 Mondays in November. 

It feels like opportunity, for some reason. Clean slate. Holidays begin. Weather better. 

(Reminds me I need to revisit the 26 for 2026 list and start keeping notes for next year's list.)

With summer staying an extra month, the end of the year is so close you can touch it.

My week isn't planned well, but I managed a "no" that frees up a little bit of time. It's a good week -- only a few chores, but it's too much with people and too much of me driving the plans again. 

I've started using the idea of "good enough" as another way to tackle my calendar woes. 

It's not a new concept, but I overheard it on last week's hike and it struck a chord. They were talking about it in relationship to work-life balance, but I can absolutely apply it to my situation.

I did it yesterday. Kids over for football and I had the hike. Left EVERYTHING up to everyone else. No cooking. No food planning. No toy setup. I came home around 4 o'clock, got to play with my grandson which is the best part, and didn't even help cleanup. 

Hubby wanted to sell something on Marketplace and I told him to use his account. I didn't need to be the middle person and manage it. He sold the sports stuff yesterday and there were so many questions -- see?? No need for my involvement. 

Good enough. 

I'm taking things down a notch or two. Doing just enough and letting others pick up the slack (do some work too). No need for me to do it all. Wonder if I can use it this week?

A friend reached out to get together. I gave her dates. She responded "let me know some ideas and we can lock it in." What?? Why am I planning this now? I'll put out a couple of basic ideas and punt decisions back to her. Good enough.

I'm applying this to the holidays too. They'll be good enough so that I have time to enjoy it too. I have a big no for a birthday party. December 23 -- costume party (not Christmas themed). I can't do it. Just the party? Okay. Party with an elaborate costume the evening before I host the holiday -- nope. 

Anyway, should be light soon and I can get to the chore list -- starting with a food bank garden donation. Today is "that" kind of day, but I'll be happy to have the work finished.

Hope you're set for this month -- we're cruising to the finish line of 2026.

Have a great Monday.

Later gators.