Junior Recap

Our Little's 11th grade year flew by even faster than her sophomore year! Here are some of the moments that highlight her activities outside of sports (since XC and soccer had their own posts).

Holiday week PJ day:

Spirit week dress up day: Geek vs Greek

Multiple times on stage for strings concerts and awards.

With her friend who also shared that same stage for strings performances and awards.

The awards in her packet, namely top GPA in both AP Biology and Dual Enrollment US History. Pretty impressive at college accredited classes!

As one of the top 8 in her class, she was honored as a Junior Marshal to escort the seniors during graduation.

Leading them out to cheers of applause among the Pomp and Circumstance.

Our top 8 in the junior class!

Currahee - Mother's Day

For Mother's Day, I wanted the family to take me to Currahee. All of them had climbed this mountain in Toccoa, GA except me. It was the tallest peak in the area as we were driving in.

This Army camp was used during WWII as a training base. The soldiers would have to run the 3 miles up the mountain and the 3 miles down within an hour or have to do it again. 

When it was time to deploy, the infantry units parachuted down into Normandy, France. There's a memorial here for all those killed, wounded, or missing in action. 

I decided to test out my new backpack. I filled it to the brim with my hiking gear, water, and our snacks. The full pack weighed about 25 lbs. 

Luke wore a 20 lb weighed vest and broke in his new Army boots. Eric and our youngest wore small packs for their phones, wallets & keys.

The road wasn't too bad, but definitely got my heart rate up in places, especially toward the end. I was surprised by how many vehicles were on the road. Each time one drove by, they kicked up dust that made it hard to breathe.

That last stretch up was the hardest, but there was a reward waiting at the top. This graffiti rock had amazing views!

The yougest made it to the top first in just 25 minutes. Eric was next, followed by Luke. I was the last one to arrive. 

There are a few small trails at the top where you can see different overlooks. 

After the hike, we decided to stop by McAlister's Deli for some tea, sandwiches, and a couple slices of their Colossal Carrot Cake. 😋

Sole 2 Soul

I signed up to be part of a 2nd hiking group. This one is affiliated with veterans and family members of those serving in the military. The group has about 18 total, but our training hikes usually have 8-10.

The group is called Sole to Soul, and we're training for a 4-day hike on the Appalachian Trail. It doesn't take long to see why the group is so aptly named. Being out here is so peaceful!

Most of the hikers are former military who served in Afganistan, Iraq, and other conflicts. Their stories are slowly being shared as we get to know each other. 

I'm one of the anomalies since I've never served myself. But having a son in the Army Reserves and a husband in the SC State Guard, I'm welcomed with full support. My other hiking group, the nonprofit CEOs, had a link to this one and introduced me.

My hiking speed is a bit on the faster side, so this group is good for me to slow my pace and enjoy being in the moment.

As we build up our stamina with more miles and higher elevation gain, we're also gradually increasing the weight of our packs. The leads also provide training during our breaks with first aid, camping skills, and cooking demonstrations.

We hike on the training days as scheduled, regardless of the weather, terrain, or who can make it. 

Our lunch spots have the best views!

We don't rest too long or our muscles will tighten. It's time to get back on the trail.

Several more hikes to go before September's AT. Not a bad way to stay in shape!