''The bug is still in my eye.''

Seven words I didn’t expect to utter during our return to the trails. Luckily for me, I got to say it twice… for the same eye! Surely you caught my sarcasm, and if you’re familiar with our adventures, you also know I do NOT like bugs.

Yet, I remained calm and pretended to be an adult about the situation. Besides, I didn’t want to scare off our friend Mark, a fellow hiking lover who was kind enough to guide us. I did, however, warn him about our fear of pretty much everything else - especially things that slither. In some instances, calm just feels out of reach.

This was our first real hike since our Raven Rock State Park visit two years ago. (Read about our experience here.) While there are many brave females who explore the wilderness alone, we’re not members of that group. Our comfort outdoors exists in numbers. Therefore, we were thrilled to have someone join us voluntarily. Walking through the woods isn’t everyone’s idea of a good time!

We arrived early to beat the heat. The Uwharrie trail to Little Long Mountain was short-ish and sweet. The forest, lush and serene. Apart from casual conversation, a slip-of-the-foot on rocky terrain, and occasional rustling in the bushes, not many sounds were heard. It was a tranquil experience that only time in nature can give. I didn’t realize just how much I’ve missed that.

Views at the top did not disappoint. And although the area was a bit overgrown, mountain peaks were visible as far as we could see. A lone, open cabin also sits there welcoming wanderers and campers alike. It's a perfect spot to have lunch, catch your breath, or stay overnight (if you’re prepared). Imagine seeing the sun rise from here!

Before heading back down the mountain, we enjoyed the fruit of a blackberry bush that Mark spotted. We wouldn’t have tried those either if we didn’t trust his knowledge. You know… fear and all! Family members often tease us about our lust for adventure while simultaneously being so afraid of things. But ya know, we just do it anyway.

Feeling centered but hungry, we drove around seeking a tad more exploration before heading in to enjoy a protein-packed lunch. It was a perfect day.