Day 2: Darn Bees

May 25, 2025

Today we walked from Big Meadows to Skyland.

Like a gazelle, as mentioned in yesterday’s post, I tried to find peace in my vulnerability and really looked at the beauty of it all—and I found the day to be totally relaxing.

The views are breathtaking. We saw a hut that hikers sleep in, a lot of wildflowers, little critters, loud robins, creaky trees, bees, streams, and lots and lots of rocks (unfortunately, not the kind from the jewelry store!).

The robins were so interesting—every time we heard loud noises in the fields or in a brush and paused to see what it was, it was always a robin. For such little creatures—probably in search of food—they make a lot of loud rustling noises!

Then there were the trees. As we listened to the woodpeckers in the background, we also heard this creaking noise—it turned out to be the trees swaying in the wind. It was lovely and peaceful to listen to. The streams created mini waterfalls and made soothing sounds.

Oh, the rocks. I like the rock outcrops on some of the overlooks that provide great views. I like the big rocks we can sit on to eat lunch and relax. I even like the piles of rocks on the side of a hill. But I don’t think I’ve ever walked on so many rocks in my life—and my ankle was not a big fan (neither was I). You just had to keep your head down the whole time to make sure you were stepping on something stable. But if you looked hard enough and focused on the beauty of the outdoors, you could find some very interesting rocks.

Then there were the bees. I walked and thought about the buzzing for miles—why bees? Where are the butterflies?

And then a flood of memories came back.

Matthew was allergic to bees. I started thinking about the many times I crushed bees with my bare hands because I didn’t want anything to happen to him. This led me to ruminate about his childhood and think about a lot of happy memories. The bees on the trail weren’t so bad after all.

I don’t really meditate, but I was so deep in thought about the past—it felt like some form of meditation because it made me remember a lot of happy things I hadn’t thought of in a very long time. It helped me destress—or as Matt would say, “Chill, Mom.”

After about seven miles of listening to bees buzzing every so often, I finally said, “Well, how about butterflies?” Lo and behold, a butterfly landed right in front of me. You might think I’m making that up, but nope—my friend was a witness.

All in all, it was a great day.

Hoping for good weather in the next few days. They’re calling for some heavy rain, and we’re hoping it changes.

Oh, and I was given my trail name—Gazelle.

In loving memory of Matthew—rest in peace..