Lately, I’ve been hiking at sunrise. Why? Because I’m in the southeastern United States where it’s hot and humid.
My Canon EOS Rebel T3 has served me well for many years. Among it’s many accomplishments, it recorded a breathtaking trip through the Canadian Rockies and a dream trip to Scotland. It has also recorded many gatherings of friends and family, as well as a host of other trips. Perhaps it’s proudest accomplishment has been recording the many hikes my daughter and I have taken over the past year. Many of these photos have been used to stir my imagination when writing. Continue reading “Ode to a Camera”
I hike, a lot. I find hiking, even neighborhood walks, to be a wonderful way to gather inspiration for writing. It’s also a much needed stretch after beating on a keyboard for hours. I tend to hit trails with big views or a destination. As a result, Boone Fork Trail – although nearby – never caught my interest. Continue reading “Boone Fork Trail”
Many writers (me included) eventually find our characters in the woods, usually running at top speed or lost off trail. In the southeastern USA, your character might be able to swing through the tree tops (using kudzu vines), but otherwise they would need to stay on trails to maintain a lope, trot, run, sprint, or canter. Heck, in many spots you would need a machete to amble away from the trail.
Today I was hiking in my own back yard on a trail that provides mileage without driving. It’s keeps me in shape for carrying the camera and backpack on mountain hikes. It’s also quiet, except for birds, and the rustling of leaves and grasses. It’s rare I meet more than 1-2 people on this trail. I find hiking rejuvenating for both my spirit and mind, so when I return to my office the writing flows a little better. Nothing beats a 3-mile hike to clear out the cobwebs.
N. R. Tucker 