Northwest River Park Loop (Virginia)

At the Virginia / North Carolina border, just south of Norfolk lies this wonderful county park. I was in the area visiting relatives in Moyock and doing my usual looking for trail options while in town. Seeing that this park had a nice series of trails it was definitely worth checking out. Added bonus was the Disc Golf course. Two of my older sons are very into disc golf at the moment and so I was able to bring them along for them to check out the course.

It became a family outing as I ran the trail loop, two sons were on disc golf, and my 3rd son hiked the Molly Mitchell side of the loop. It was a nice December day in the lower 40s and a good outing to get some fresh air. The trails were very leaf covered though in some places had been groomed clean. The trails were very rooted and the leaves made that more of a challenge. It was a small bit of fortune that I didn't eat dirt once today.

Advent and the Communion of Saints

[This is my Faith Post for December 2024.] 

In this Advent season we consider our sins and turn in repentance towards the mercy of our Savior Jesus.  This is all part of our preparation and anticipation of Jesus' 2nd Coming.   It is also practical to say, we spend a lot of time in this season thinking about Christmas and the holiday celebrations.  On one hand, it is a great blessing to gather and celebrate and share gifts and big meals. So many opportunities for joy!  On the other hand, this season can come across with so much difficulty for those dealing with the stresses of all the change and expectation.  This season also brings to the forefront so much loss and grief when we struggle to handle the absence of loved ones.