One thing that’s kept me sane and connected throughout the pandemic is being in green open spaces.

Mother’s Day was spent hiking in the wonderful Palisades Interstate Park. Running up leaf-covered hillsides, balancing across water-logged walk paths, conquering rocky terrains, swinging from trees in carefree abandon—my inner child came out to play.

The changes in scenery dynamically alter between water and woodland with idyllic spots along the way, enough to lull your mind into that state of perfect happiness—nirvana.

And then there was the climb—

—steep and winding up the mountain.

Absolutely worth the ‘burn’ for the reward of picturesque views from the zenith.

At the mountaintop is the Women’s Federation Monument.

The castle-like structure overlooks the river with great views in all directions.

A climb up the stairs to the second floor…

… gives even greater views of the city far far below.

To complete the perfection of the hike, a 10-week old corgi named Luna took a liking to me.

I said a prayer along the way …

… and left a small marker—the cairn. Three stones built atop a boulder—each stone symbolically saying: “I Am Here”.

This post was inspired by Fandango’s One Word Challenge. Today’s word is zenith.
Thank you for reading!
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In creative solidarity, Dee
Your work is beautiful 🙏🏿
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Thanks! And thanks 🙏🏽 for stopping by. Cheers, Dee
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This looks like it was a beautiful day full of adventures. Nature is lovely and it feels nice when surrounded by nature, just taking time to explore all the senses. I love the photos and its a great post to make all of the readers go on the journey with you. Thank you.
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Thanks for stopping by. Glad you enjoyed it vicariously. It was indeed a fun trip. Nature rocks!!!! Cheers, Dee
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Happy Monday, Dee. Here is the story for your castle. https://masonsmenagerie.wordpress.com/2021/05/17/guardian-of-treasures/
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You wrote it?! Ahhhh …I’m impressed Mason. It’s on my reading list for tomorrow ( it’s 118am in my part of the world and I’m just finishing up some urgent work deadlines). Excited to read it 😀🎉😀🎊
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I did!! Never rush on my part. I hope you enjoy it.
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I walked with you; in my mind’s eyes, and with my senses POWERFULLY in-tuned to nature’s healing glow. I walked with you….
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Mission accomplished 😊 glad you enjoyed the vicarious walk. Nuff love
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This is so beautiful. Makes me want to take a hike this weekend 🙂
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Yeah Lonia. Go for it!!!! I hope you do! Thanks for stopping by. Cheers, Dee
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What a magical place full of adventure and majesty. I would love to live there.
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It is Mason. Make a wish 😉. Hope the photos gave you a vicarious adventure. Thanks for stopping by. Cheers, Dee
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I could easily write a story around the castle. That looks like a spot for a grand adventure.
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Looking forward to reading it if you write it Mason 😊
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Thank you, Dee. Would I be okay to share the picture with the story if I did?
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Yes, of course, it would be ok (with a little note of credit, thanks 🙏🏽). Let me know if you do so I don’t miss reading it ok 👍🏽
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Of course, I’ll link the credit to the post your pictures on to help you get views too.
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Oh … that would be nice Mason. That’s kind of you. Hope your weekend is off to a great start.
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WONDERFUL!!!!!! I loved that! Thank you for that virtual and pictorial trip. Much love and blessings!!!
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Glad you enjoyed it Nols!!! Isn’t nature magically wonderfully splendiferous?!😀 thanks for stopping by. Cheers, Dee
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Absolutely gorgeous. Thanks for sharing this hidden New Jersey gem!
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Ahhh…you know this park Victoria? It was my first time. Loved it!!! Thanks for stopping by. Cheers, Dee.
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…and I do like off-the-beaten-path places. Indeed it’s a hidden gem and thoroughly worth discovering 😀
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Beautiful day and beautiful Dee 😍
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Thank you for stopping by dear Ashok. Happy you found the beauty in it too. Cheers, Dee
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It is beauty I love. In love and with love I seek the Maker of the beautiful 💖
Yes it was beautiful
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Beautifully said my e-friend!!!
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