High Meadows Trail and portion of South Valley Trail ~ 5 miles
November 10, 2012
This weekend my parents were visiting and us, and of course, we invited them to come hiking with us! It was a beautiful day for hiking, with sunny skies, perfect temperature, and great company. Bobby chose a hike in Prince William forest so we would have to drive far. Unfortunately, the hike was rather longer than he realized, and we were all very tired and it was getting dark by the time we finished. However, it was a very nice hike, much of it following a stream. Many of the leaves had fallen, but there was still lots of color in the trees and of course, on the ground. One section of the trail had such a thick carpet of dry leaves we could barely hear each other talking! Mom and Dad were really good sports about doing this with us, and Dad carried Gracie for part of the hike. Another special thing that happened on this hike was an opportunity to gain our plenary indulgence for the Holy Souls during November, by visiting a cemetery. Along the route there was a tiny, family cemetery, with a newer stone marking the burial place of a person who used to live in this area during the 1800's. We prayed for his soul and said prayers for the Pope, to gain our indulgences. Definitely the most unique place 
and experience for visiting a cemetery during November! All in all, it was a fun hike for us, though a bit long for Mom and Dad, and Bobby and I may do it again. Prince William Forest is just a great, local spot to hike and enjoy nature!Gracie had fun with Grandpa and Nonna, and loved crawling around in the dry leaves!
Quantico Cascades Trail ~ 1.5 miles
November 12, 2012
After Mom and Dad left on Monday, Bobby and I went back to Prince William Forest for another, shorter hike, just to get out and enjoy the nice day and fresh air. We did a short trail down to yet another creek in the park. This trail was just the right length for our still tired legs from Saturday! It was a great little hike and we plan to come again in the spring, when the water is hopefully flowing even more!
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ReplyDeleteAngela, I'm sorry.
ReplyDeleteI've wanted to say that for a long time. I dated no one (except two hesitant dates with one person) for five years after I broke up with you. I needed to take stock of my life and get myself in order. But please know, Angela, that what I did was not out of malice or deliberate bad will. It was stupidity and ignorance, which I hope you recognize. My confessor would affirm it. I was so happy for you when I heard you had married Bobby. And I'm sorry for the pain I caused you, and I ask your forgiveness.
You were correct in saying that I lacked "a profound love and relationship with God." It is a fact that I have slowly and painstakingly been trying to rectify. You and Bobby are extremely blessed in that respect. The deep love you have for God and for each other is rare, whether you recognize it or not. Please show mercy upon sinners who have not yet approached that level, but hope, one day, to get there.
I realize that I have no place in your life now, and I'm not seeking one. But I realized after we crossed paths that I needed to tell you these things. I will disappear again, and hope that we can meet again as friends, with Christ in heaven. May God and Our Lady bestow upon you and Bobby and Grace all the graces that you are able to receive. I wish you a wonderful life together.