living proof of God's grace & living free to share hope, encouragement & adventures
Adventurous dog owners... this one's for you. Have you ever thought about taking your dog kayaking? We did this with Gus a month or so ago and I wasn't sure what to expect. It's not that I was worried—I just had no idea what Gus would do, if he would jump out, if we would …
Living less than an hour from the Smoky Mountains, we are not lacking for hikes. Unfortunately, Smoky Mountain National Park does not allow dogs on trails—and we have a dog who loves to hike. So, we're always on the hunt for new dog friendly trails near Knoxville, TN. A few weeks ago, my husband John …
I didn’t see it coming. At the start of 2020, I was single. No dating prospects. Not actively seeking to date. Just single. This was yet another area of my life that I finally realized was better left to God—as opposed to me trying to make relationships happen. So, I waited on God for a …
Grotto Falls is pretty popular. First, it’s the only waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park that you can walk behind. Bam. Instant appeal. Second, it’s a short hike. Only 1.4 miles from the Trillium Gap trailhead to the falls. Minimal effort for maximum beauty. Ironically, Grotto Falls’ popularity and the short trek to …
Continue reading Grotto Falls Tennessee Hike to Brushy Mountain
Hiking to Ramsey Cascades helped me realize that I love 8 mile hikes. They're sort of my sweet spot in terms of distance. Don’t get me wrong. I love me a shorter hike. But y'all, I also love a challenge and feel like I’m stretching myself around that 8-mile mark. When I learned that the …
Continue reading Ramsey Cascades Trail: Smoky Mountain Waterfall Hike
Friends, I hiked eight miles to see a bunion in the Smokies. Though I don’t have bunions, they’re hereditary on my mom’s side—so I grew up quite familiar with ‘em. Outside of my family, though, it’s not often I hear much bunion talk. Maybe that’s why I was so intrigued when several Tennesseans recommended the …
I now live less than an hour from the nearest mountains. Just pinched myself. Not dreaming. It’s entirely possible for me to drive to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in under 60 minutes—and I've taken advantage of that several times in my first month as a Tennessee resident. Can ya blame me? Between recommendations …
Continue reading A Hidden Gem in East Tennessee: Obed Wild & Scenic River
Welp. I did it. After 5+ years of being a Florida girl, I traded the beach for the mountains. And honestly, I’m sitting here thinking, What took me so long?! Tennessee is a state for adventurers. A state where—after just a few short weeks—I already feel like I belong. Though I’m eager to explore the …
adventure and the girl 