Crystal clear blue sky, Mt. Rainier

 Today was trash clean up on the lower portion of the logging road. I brought 4 grocery bags, filled 1 with cans for recycling and 3 with trash. It took forever to get to the end of the trail. I like having the trail clean, but I can't say I really like picking up trash. It just shouldn't be there, so I pick it up. And another thing, while we're at it, I don't actually enjoy hiking. I keep telling myself that I do, but right now it's just a way to exercise. So, part of my learning to like hiking is to count the reasons "I like hiking:"

1. It's exercise. I sweat, I raise my heart rate, I move my arms and legs and I cover ground.
2. It's close to my home. Minimal travel time for a lot of hikes. I've been doing the forest treadmill, steep trail (see photo above) but there are longer trails with less elevation gain, too.
3. It's free.
4. It gives me a sense of accomplishment.
5. It wears out my dog. She loves it.
6. It helps me sleep better at night and awakened refreshed in the morning.
7. It helps me appreciate nature, to enjoy the lush greenery.
8. It's challenging.
9. I can breathe fresh air during my hikes.
10. I detox from electronics, civilization and stuff.

If I don't yet like hiking, but I'm hoping I will like it soon. I would still rather be laying in the sun or taking a nap or swimming.