
‘In nature, nothing is perfect and everything is perfect. Trees can be contorted, bent in weird ways, and they’re still beautiful.’-Alice Walker

I love to be outside and there are few places better to do this than Oregon. Bend is a nature lover’s paradise. The temperatures are starting to rise and the sun. Spring is officially here and there is a global pandemic. I am embracing social distancing, the restaurant I love has temporarily closed and the college has converted to online for the foreseeable future. My therapist’s office is closed. The one thing I can do is be outside. One of my favorite places to explore is the Deschutes River Trail!
The trail itself is about 23 miles. I have not been over all of it, I have done a few segments and am in love. I missed my walks in Valley Forge and this is my new place. Various access points are no more than 20 minutes from my house. Earbuds in, my trusty Danner Pacific Coast trail shoes on, and my camera. It is the perfect afternoon! I love the hearing the water and the birds chirping.
I plan on exploring various trails (ones I feel safe on) but I will always return to the Deschutes. I cannot wait to continue to explore all 23 miles of it and, due to the current climate, I have plenty of time.
I hope everyone stays safe, healthy, and washes their hands. This too shall pass (and hopefully soon for the sake of my anxiety)!