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Living Life to the Fullest!!!
May 2013
News and Views
Photo Albums
Lifestyle Blog
Favorite Web Sites
Inspirational Quote
My Favorite Health Product
Recommended Reading
Comments - Suggestions
About the Edfior
MAY EVENTS
May Hike - Hemlock Creek
OPALs Only Hike - Red Top
GPS Navigation Class
Ossabaw Island Weekend
Meteor Shower Hike
Trail Cross in Nature's Gym
MACC Cascade Rollers Ride
Ogeechee River Paddle
South Fulton Running Partners
Hang Gliding Adventure
2013 Tour de Cure
Learn to Kayak - Women Only
OPALs Only Hike
Diving with a Purpose
Memorial Day Campfest
FUTURE EVENTS
National Trails Day
Juneteenth Celebration
Len Foote Inn Weekend
Cumberland Island Backpacking
Belize Sailing Meeting
Grand Canyon Trip Meeting
Belize Sailing & Eco Tour
Grand Canyon Adventure
JUST FOR YOU...
Day Hike Packs
Hiking Tips & Insights
Health Tidbits
Homestay Opportunity


Photo Albums 
Providence Canyon

 
Lifestyle Blog  
Carolyn-WhiteBlouse_125

My blog about Living Life to the Fullest!!!  where I share my inspiration, motivation and rejuvenation on this wonderful journey.

  Read my latest blog...

Also see entries from my Guest Blogger, Thomas Thompson, in Belize.

Favorite Web Sites 

Inspirational Quote
CH at Rock City
Life is too short,
Don't ever waste it.

Life is sweet,
Take time to taste it.

Life is a journey,
Find the right path.

Life is entertaining,
Don't be afraid to laugh.

Life is for good times,
Make them last.

Life has it's bad times,
Put them in your past.

Life is chance,
Make sure to take it.

But most importantly...
Life is what you make it.
 
My Favorite All Natural Daily Supplements   
ProVitality - New

GNLD NeoLife's Pro Vitality™ Pack makes it easy for me to receive the critical nutrients most often missing from my diet.  It helps me maintain my high energy and vitality with four amazing products in one simple pack -- the Vitality Pack!

It is ALLERGY FREE!!!

It contains no gluten!  Wheat allergies are usually an allergy to the portion of wheat protein known as gluten.  The wheat germ oil used in these supplements contains no wheat gluten.    

ProVitality Packet  

Each packet provides:

  • Tre-en-en® Grain Concentrates 
    Feed your cells - Energize your life.
  • Carotenoid Complex™ 
    Protect your cells - Optimize your immunity
  • Omega-III Salmon Oil Plus™ 
    Balance & regulate your cells - Maximize your good health
  • Formula IV Plus® 
    Nourish your cells - More than just a multi
Powerful nutrients that support:
  • Abundant Energy
  • Powerful Antioxidant Protection
  • Lifelong Heart Health
  • Optimum Immune Strength
  • Healthy Brain Function
  • Flexible, Healthy Joints
  • Clear Vision
  • Youthful Skin, Hair & Nails
  • Lifelong Cellular Health
 

 Fast Facts about ProVitality   

 

Hype Free Zone

 

THREE WAYS TO BUY!
  1. As a Discount-Member - Save 15%
  2. As a Customer-Distributor - Save 25%
  3. As a Business-Distributor - Start your own business
Paying full retail price isn't always the only way to buy.
Find out how you can obtain discounts on these all natural supplements, plus other all natural products.

 

For more information, or any questions, contact me by email or telephone at 678.231.4973 
Recommended Reading  
Our True Nature
Our True Nature, is a layperson's guide to the National Parks, by a woman of color, who has been to all the places described, and makes it particularly unique through her eyes and footsteps.  It includes places such as Paul Revere's house; the Liberty Bell; John Brown's Fort; the Ocmulgee mounds in Georgia, and the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor. It describes where the parks are, how to get there, where to stay, what to do, and even the best time of year to visit. 

Get more info and purchase the book...

______________________

Just Get Serious - Vol1
Know Yourself & Believe in Yourself is the first of the four exciting volumes in the Just Get Serious success series written by our own, Donna "Serious Satchell". This book is filled is powerful insights, take action strategies, and inspiring stories that will inspire and motivate you to Live Your Life to the Fullest!!!

Read more about Donna and her books...

 

Comments & Suggestions  

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Share your comments and suggestions here.  Some will be posted, as space allows.Thanks...in advance!

Submit here...



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About the Editor 

Carolyn Hartfield is a Natural Health and Holistic Nutrition Practitioner and a Lifestyle Coach who enjoys sharing her knowledge and experiences through her writings, and engaging presentations.

Carolyn has been featured in newspaper and magazine articles, radio shows, and at various conferences. She is  previous host of her own Blog Talk Radio show.

Carolyn is a certified Outings Leader through the Sierra Club, certified in Wilderness First Aid through the National Outdoor Leadership School, Wilderness Institute, and certified as a National Interpretive Guide.  She is a member of the Sierra Club, the American Hiking Society, and the Family Wellness Network.

Carolyn is truly 'Living Life to the Fullest!!!' You must believe, and act accordingly, that dreams can come true!
Carolyn sitting on tree at Sweetwater
Greetings! 

Life gets better by the day!!!  Hope you are enjoying life, as much I am... relishing in the unsurpassed greatness and new opportunities each day brings! I take delight in each day! I encourage you to do the same! Check out my Lifestyle Blog posts to see some of the things that I have been doing.

As we celebrate National Physical Fitness & Sports Month, Older Americans Month, Mother's Day and Memorial Day all this month, I say we have a lot to celebrate...life itself! 

Celebrate your journey for improved physical fitness.  Try a  new sport or other activity the gets you moving and more physically fit.  Hint, hint, join us on a hike! Visit the Atlanta African American Adventurers website to see the many activities in which you can get involved.

Recognize an 'older' person who has had influence on you...let them know the impact they have had on your life...give them a call or send them a personalized note. Let them know they are celebrated this month and thank them for their wisdom. What you do can be just a small gesture that will give them great delight!  Let me say that while 'Older' Americans Month generally means seniors (age 65+), I say it is all relative, especially seeing that I will be an official senior this year...can you believe it...65?!  Anyway, I/we celebrate men and women who are age 50 or older.  Check out our OPALs website and our OPALs Meetup group to see these Older People with Active Lifestyles!  I say "OPALs are Real Gems!"

As we continue with our celebrations, let us focus on Mother's Day!  Do something different this year!  Whatever you have done in the past, do something that will not be expected...be creative!  I am not saying it has to be elaborate.  Make it personal and thoughtful, not commercialized. If your mother is no longer with you, you know somebody's mother...a sister, aunt, cousin, friend, etc., whomever, just celebrate them for Mother's Day!

And, let us not forget our men and women who have served this country to protect our freedom.  As you celebrate with a cookout, or other activity, why not ask everyone in your presence to have a moment of silence to commemorate our fallen brothers and sisters, fathers, uncles, etc. Let us not forget the real reason for Memorial Day.

I reiterate, when you join us in any of our activities, they not only are good for your physical health, they also provide valuable support for mental and spiritual health.  The gratifying camaraderie you will experience is an excellent stress reliever, and while we are basking in the wonderful outdoors with all its natural splendor, you will feel a positive connectivity to Mother Nature.  I can't find the right words to fully describe what you will feel, you have to experience it to understand the utopia and inner peace it brings.

Only a few spots left for the Belize Sailing Trip.  Click here for for information
Let me tell you...If you have never gone sailing before, this is the trip for you!  We will enjoy the Caribbean coast of Belize. It  is lined with the longest Barrier Reef in the Western Hemisphere . Three of merely four coral atolls in the Western Hemisphere are located off the coast of Belize.  We will visit the nearby islands, the jungle, beaches and more.  Visit the web site for more information and to register for this wonderful adventure.  We have a very special gift to celebrate our inaugural Sailing Adventure, for each person who joins us!  It is something that is very useful and you will enjoy for a long time.

I am truly living my life to the fullest, and enjoying every moment of it...I invite you to join me on this wonderful journey!

Love Much, Laugh Often, Live Long & Strong...
Carolyn's Signature
___________________________________________________
Upcoming Events Preview
May 4             Hike in celebration of National Physical Fitness & Sports Month
May 11           Special OPALs Hike in Celebration of Older Americans Month
May 3 - 5         Ossabaw Island Service Weekend
May 11             Wilderness Survival Skills
May 17 - 19     Ogeechee River Coastal Paddle at Ft. McAllister State Park
May 18            Hang Gliding - Lookout Mountain
May 19            Learn to Kayak - Women Only
May 20            Great Hike - OPALs only
June 1             Sky Diving
June 1             Historic Augusta Canal Paddle
June 1             National Trails Service Day - Sweetwater Creek Hike / Partner with REI
June 14 - 16    Len Foote Hike Inn Service Weekend
July 14            White Water Rafting at the Ocoee
July 20-27       Belize Sailing & Eco Adventure *
Sept 6             Backpacking Tour on Cumberland Island
Sept 21-27      Grand Canyon Hike & Eco Adventure*

*Eco Adventures are trips that combine adventurous activities combined with environmental awareness that foster a greater appreciation for our natural habitats.
___________________________________________________________

MAY EVENTS
Calendar w-Pencil Please review the events and register to attend.  Space is limited on all events, if you register, plan to attend. Always let them know you are from our group! Should your plans change, update your reservation so your space can be filled. Please do not deprive someone else from attending!

Hartfield's Hikers National Physical Fitness Monthly Hike
Hemlock Creek Hike Group
May 4 | Saturday 
Hemlock Creek Falls Trail
Distance: 4.0 Miles 
Rated: Easy / Moderate
Departure: 8:00a.m. (arrive by 7:45a)
Meeting Place:
Hong Kong Market Parking Lot

5495 Jimmy Carter Blvd.
Norcross, GA 30093
 

 RSVP HERE 

This absolutely beautiful scenic 4.0 mile trail is easy to moderate with most of it being fairly easy. The trail rises subtly, at times quite high from the creek leaving you wondering how you got so far up.  This is a trail I discovered on my scouting adventures.  We hiked it for the first time last year, and it was an immediate hit! It is well worth the almost 2 hour drive to the North Georgia Mountains, just outside of Helen GA.  

 

The trail we will hike is actually two trails combined, a loop connected to an in-and-out along the creek to the Hemlock Falls.  As we hike toward the falls, we will be teased with the rustling sounds of the creek during the entire hike.  There are maybe two or three wet spots that we cross, nothing major.  Before we reach the Hemlock Falls, there are several smaller falls we will pass and multiple scenic stops along the way.

 

Once we reach the end of the trail, where the Hemlock Falls are located, we will stop for lunch while enjoying each others company and the beautiful falls before heading back, taking the trail to the opposite side of the loop.

There is a very small 'free' parking lot, and there is parking across the road at the State Park, for $5.00.  Don't forget, you can go to your local library, use your library card  and 'check out,' as you would a book, a Georgia State Parks, Parking Pass.  Sometimes they go pretty fast, so you may want to check up front and reserve it for pick-up. 

  

Bring plenty of water, a light healthy lunch, a smile and a friendly disposition, and you are guarantee to have a wonderful outing in the wilderness... WOW! As always, wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots (please, no new shoes or boots...you will be sorry...break them in first!), and of course comfortable layered, clothing.   

 

Don't forget the Leave No Trace principles to which we adhere... what you carry in, you carry out, with the exception of taking your memories of the adventure, your new friendships, and of course, any photos you may take.

 

Remember... we car pool and each rider is asked to donate $10 toward gas.  

 

Feel free to contact me by return email or telephone at 678.231.4973 should you have any questions.   You can RSVP here


OPALs Only - Celebrating Older Americans Month Hike
OPALs

Date: May 11 | Saturday
Hike Trail: Red Top Mountain Loop
Distance: 5.5 Miles
Rated: Easy / Moderate
Departure: 8:00 a.m.
Meeting Location: IHOP
Smyrna, GA 30080
 

In celebration of Older Americans Month, I have scheduled an exclusive OPALs (men & women age 50+) hike at Red Top Mountain. It is a time for us to meet and greet again, and enjoy the Great American Outdoors!  Plus, as a BONUS, we will be taped for a segment on the AIBTV.com, and you may be interviewed. (See below for info about AIB-TV). RSVP Here 

 

ABOUT RED TOP: The namesake of the park, Red Top Mountain, is in the northwestern section of the park.  The high iron ore content of the soil on the mountain and in the surrounding area is the reason for the Red Top name.  Mining iron ore was once an important activity on Red Top Mountain and in the local area.

 

The Sweetgum Lodge Loop Trail begins at the front porch of the park Visitor Center, turns north for one mile, crosses Lodge Road and then makes a 3.5 mile loop through some of the most beautiful areas of the park.

The loop portion of the trail follows the lake shore for approximately half its length.  Completion of the loop leads back to the same one mile route to the Visitors Center.

As always, wear comfortable (not new) sturdy shoes, and layered clothing.  Bring plenty of water, snacks and your lunch.  We will stop about midway and have lunch on the trail.

 

The trail head is less than an hour drive from Atlanta.  We carpool, so please be prepared to donate $7 - $10 to the driver for gas and parking.  There is a $5 fee for parking unless you go to your local library and check-out a 'State Park Parking Pass, for free parking.

 

Please be honest with yourself and your ability to hike this trail.  We want it to be enjoyable for everyone.  As usual, Paulette our 'Sweep' will be the last person in the rear, to ensure our motto, 'We are as fast as the slowest person,' we do not rush nor push you.

 

Any questions, please feel free to contact me at 678.231.4973, or by email through this meetup website.  RSVP Here 

 

ABOUT AIB-TV:

Atlanta Interfaith Broadcasters has been around since May 1969. Atlanta Interfaith Broadcasters remains dedicated to the community and are proud to provide programming that spotlights non profit organizations striving to benefit those in our community. Our partnerships with such organizations as the United Way of Metropolitan Atlanta, The Carter Center, the Atlanta Women's Foundation and the Center for the Study of Law and Religion at Emory University enable them to provide exceptional programming available exclusively to viewers of AIB.


GPS Navigation Basics Class
May 1 | 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. | Wednesday
REI Outdoor School - Atlanta Area event
 Get More Info 

Ossabaw Island Service Weekend
May 3 - 5 | 9:00 a.m. | Sunday
Georgia Conservancy event
 Get More Info 

Meteor Shower Hike w/ REI
May 5 | 8:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.| Sunday
REI Outdoor School - Atlanta Area event
 Get More Info

Trail Cross in Nature's Gym w/ REI
 May 7 | 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.| Tuesday
REI Outdoor School - Atlanta Area event

MACC Cascade Rollers Ride
 May 7 | 6:30p.m.| Tuesday

Ogeechee River Coastal Paddle | Ft. MsAllister State Park
 May 17 - 19 | Friday 5:00p.m. - Sunday 12:00p.m.

South Fulton Running Partners Weekly Run
 May 18 | 7:30a.m. | Saturday

Hang Gliding at Lookout Mountain
 May 18 | 9:00a.m. | Saturday
2-night cabin option available

2013 Tour de Cure
 May 19 | 9:00a.m. | Sunday
Metro Atlanta Cycling Club Event (with the American Diabetes Association)
Boundary Waters Park

Learn to Kayak
 May 19 | 2:30p.m. - 6:30p.m.| Sunday
Sweetwater Creek State Park
Douglasville, GA

OPALs Only Hike w/ REI
 May 20 | 8:00a.m. - 10:00a.m.| Saturday
Davidson - Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve

Diving with a Purpose
 May 19 - 26 | 12:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.| Friday - Sunday
Pensacola, Florida

Memorial Day Weekend Campfest
 May 24 - 26 | 12:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.| Friday - Sunday
Whitewater Express Ocoee Camp


FUTURE EVENTS    Save the dates...


National Trails Day
Saturday, June 1st. Trails do not just magically appear for our enjoyment; it takes many hours of planning, labor, and negotiating to develop them. National Trails Day®, the only nationwide celebration of trails, sponsored by the American Hiking Society, increases awareness about trails and celebrates the hard work and support of many people and partners -- including volunteers, land agencies, and outdoor minded businesses. It also introduces first-time hikers to the many joys and benefits of trails. 
Learn more...

Annual Juneteenth Weekend Celebration
June 13 - June 16  Thursday thru Sunday
Camp Genesis at Sassafras Ridge Mountain Retreat
204 Calvender Road, Turtletown, TN 37326
Weekend includes: Meet-n-Greet; Campfire Drum Circle; Guided Nature Hikes; Sassafras Ridge Mountain Retreat Tour; Laser Tag; Juneteenth Festival Ticket; African Drum and Dance Performances; Spoken Word Performances; Live Music; Ocoee River Whitewater Rafting.  Options will be available for providing camping equipment, as needed.  Pricing and more information to follow. 

Georgia Conservancy Len Foote Inn
Service Weekend
 June 14 - 16 | 9:00a.m. | Friday - Sunday

Cumberland Island Backpacking Weekend Trip Information & Preparation Meeting
 June 22 | 10:30a.m. | Saturday
Cumberland Island Backpacking Weekend Trip Information & Preparation
REI Atlanta Store

Belize Sailing Trip Information & Preparation Meeting
 June 29 | 10:30a.m. | Saturday
Belize Sailing Trip Information and Preparation Meeting
REI Atlanta Store

Grand Canyon Trip Information & Preparation Meeting
 July 13 | 10:30a.m. | Saturday
Grand Canyon Trip Information and Preparation Meeting
REI Atlanta Store

Belize Sailing & Eco Tour
Moorings 50.5 Yacht
July 20 - 27, 2013 / 8 Days - 7 Nights
Sailing out of Placencia, Belize. These catamaran yachts have the very best features for relaxation and superb sailing. Environmental considerations are central to the design. Your sailing trip includes accommodations, provisions, and a lot of friendly people and fun activities.  Need not be a swimmer to enjoy. For more information, click here, or call Carolyn at 678.231.4973.

Grand Canyon Birthday Adventure Tour
Grand Canyon Adventure - Pre-Show September 21 - 27 | SOLD OUT, but you can review the Grand Canyon Birthday Adventure tour package, and view the PowerPoint presentation

Maybe you can make the next one!

JUST FOR YOU...


Day Hike Packs
A day hiking pack has shoulder straps but no waist belt. It is intended to carry REI Flash Pack lighter loads on the shoulders for which you do not need the waist support.  There is no definitive line between hiking day packs and back packs - starting with tiny packs, you can find larger packs, some with hydration systems, some with added chest strap, and some with waist strap.
A day pack is only carried on the shoulders,and should be big enough to hold all the gear you need for the day, i.e. lunch, snacks, water, first aid kit, wipes, hand sanitizer, bug spray, sunscreen, etc.. It should not be much bigger - or you will be tempted to fill it up, meaning more weight and strain on you.

My favorite is the Flash Pack from REI...check it out.

Hiking Tips and Insights
Male Hiker
Uphill Hiking Tips

Take small steps going uphill
Purposely taking shorter steps than usual will reduce the effort per step to push your body and pack weight upwards and will make the ascent easier.

 

Downhill Hiking Tips

When going downhill, slow down by leaning back a little and putting your weight down through your heel on each step. It all depends on the type of terrain you are descending, the main thing is to not rush.

 


Health Tidbits
Sweetwater Creek Hike Group
Rev up your energy! It may be the last thing you feel like doing when you're tired, but exercise -- even a brisk walk -- can be more effective than a nap or cup of coffee at fighting fatigue.

Did you know that fresh bananas are a great energy booster...well, they are!
Love much, Laugh often, Live Long & Strong!

Host an International College Student
Atlanta Quality Homestay is always looking for qualified homestay families.  Homestay families are as diverse as our homestay guests. Host families can be singles, couples, families with or without children, retirees, different races and nationalities.  Get more information...