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Living Life to the Fullest!!!
July 2014
News, Views and Tips
Favorite Web Sites
Welcome to New Members
Inspirational Quote
My Favorite Health Product
Comments - Suggestions
About the Edfior
Hartfield's Healthy Habits
Independence Day Hike
FEATURED EVENTS
Adventure Fun Weekend Trip
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic Trip
JUST FOR YOU...
FREE State Park Parking Passes
Health Tidbits
Hiking Tips & Insights
Day Hiking Checklist
Warm Weather Hiking Attire
Hikling Boots
How to Choose Trekking poles
Basics of Hydration
How to Choose a Day Pack
Outdoor Gear Rental
 

Lifestyle Blog  

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

  Read my latest blog...

Favorite Web Sites 

WELCOME

Sweetwater Creek Hike Group

A BIG WELCOME
& THANK YOU
To All Our New & Existing Members!


OPALS
(Older People with
Active Lifestyles)

Baby Boomers

Adventurers

Hikers

Travelers

TV Viewers

Radio Listeners

Readers

Friends

Contributors

Supporters

Organizations

Partners

It is because of you that we continue to grow and know our work...and fun, is spreading joy and happiness to those we touch, if not physically, with our hearts and spirits.  Thank you for choosing to be a part of our family and community!
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.    

 

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 
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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Recommended Reading 

Audrey Peterman is President and Co-founder of Earthwise Productions, Inc., an environmental consulting and publishing firm focused on connecting the public lands system and the American public. Read more...  

 

Our True Nature by Audrey Peterman 
Click for more info and to purchase
 
Study Participants
Needed  

The Memory and Aging Lab in the School of Psychology at Georgia Tech is conduction functional magnetic imaging (fMRI) studies about memory. Itis safe, painless, and non-invasive.

I recently participated and it was really very interesting... plus I received a CD with my brain images.  You are compensated for your time, and you leave with a feeling of contributing to important research. 

For additional information, you can call the lab at 404.385.3699 or send an email to:
About the Editor 

Carolyn-WhiteBlouse_125

Carolyn Hartfield is a Natural Health and Holistic Nutrition Practitioner, a Lifestyle Coach a Health & Wellness Advocate and an Outdoor Adventurer who enjoys sharing her knowledge and experiences through her writings, and engaging speaking 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!

 
Waaahooo!  That's me in the front on the right, on my first ever White Water Rafting adventure on the Ocoee River.  I loved it!!!

This is from our Gatlinburg Adventure Fun Weekend.  There were 40 of us, and everyone had a blast!  We are already getting inquiries about when will we have the next adventure fun weekend.  Answer...don't know.  The following week I went kayaking.  I am lovin' being on the water.

Okay, since I have been working on this newsletter, there are now plans for the next Adventure Fun Weekend...Horseback Riding, hiking and a cabin stay in the Blue Ridge Mountains, possibly in November 2014.  More to come.  Let me know if you are interested.

In addition to these fun weekend events, June was definitely an adventurous month for me.  I went to San Francisco and Yosemite National Park for the first time, to help celebrate the 2nd Annual African American in the National Parks Weekend and honor of the Buffalo Soldiers, with Park Ranger Shelton Johnson, giving us an exclusive rendition performance of a Buffalo Soldier.  You may remember Shelton as the ranger at Yosemite that greeted Oprah when she and Gayle went there a few years ago. 

I then went to Las Vegas for a few days...not to gamble.  Actually, I went to a renown dentist while I was there.  I am in the process of my personal makeover.  In addition to getting my teeth perfected, I continue to workout regularly. I am also juicing and eating more fruits and vegetables, in addition to taking my all natural supplements.  It is really working for me. I am having fun and been able to maintain my weight within 10lbs. of what I weighed in high school!  And, yeah, I did it...I colored my hair.  Nothing particularly drastic...dark brown.  Thought it was time to cover some of this gray ;-).  This is a phase of my metamorphosis...as in last month's newsletter when I referred to the caterpillar and the butterfly.

I am in the process of stepping up my hikes to more challenging ones.  For July, we are going to hike Pine Mountain.  There are 2 Pine Mountain trails in Georgia, this one is not to be confused with the one up north.  This one is in the F.D. Roosevelt State Park.  It is about a 6.7 mile loop, with a more challenging terrain.  Hence forth, the trails I am considering are a little more challenging.

Not to forget those who are first-timers, or may not be ready for the step-up, I will have some new leaders who will lead those hikes. I am in the process of developing a training session for new hike leaders, and those who just want to learn more about hiking in general.  The session will cover trail basics, safety, proper gear, health tips, and of course, the Leave No Trace principles to prepare you to lead your own hikes, with groups, friends and/or family.  Stay tuned for more information.

The Great American Backyard Camp out, held at the Atlanta Outdoor Activity Center, was another sellout event with more than 200 friends and family.  It was awesome!

Moving on to July...there is sooo much to celebrate, in addition to celebrating life itself! Join me as i choose to celebrate most of them:
  • July Outdoor Month  
  • July Anti-Boredom Month 
  • July Family Reunion Month 
  • July Black Family Month   
  • July 20 Sundae Sunday 
  • July 26 National Dance Day 
  • July 28 Buffalo Soldiers Day 
  • July 30 International Day of Friendship 
Continuing my mantra from June...I remain focused on those things for which I am grateful, and my ability to pursue new things.  Following are my updates form last month:
  1. Traveling to Yosemite National Park to scout for a trip next year
    • Done 
  2. Traveling to Anchorage to scout for a trip next year
    • Pending for August 
  3. Discovering new hike trails, in and outside of Georgia
    • In progress 
  4. Have several Fun Adventure Weekend group trips planned
    • Planning Cabin & Horseback Riding 
  5. Making quiet time to focus on my writings
    • In progress 
  6. Identifying people for the Living Life to the Fullest online TV Network
    • In progress 
  7. Plans are in motion for the 2015 Adventure Wall Calendar
    • In progress 
May you continue to be blessed, as you bless others, experience optimal health, and savor in the spices of life full of love, peace, and joy.

 

Living Life to the Fullest!!!

 

  Carolyn's Signature

P.S.:  Check out the links in the sidebar to some other great sites, especially the meetup sites if you are interested in participating in a variety of fun activities and cultural events, with some great, fun-loving and friendly people.
___________________________________________________
 
Hartfield's Healthy Habits
Persistent, Practical, Prudent & Playful 
Carolyn Hartfield
I find that being persistent in pursuing my primary goal of living my best life is actually quite rewarding.  Especially when I proceed in a practical way...being realistic about those things I want to accomplish. Challenging myself to stretch and finding fulfillment in the achievement.  Being prudent in my actions knowing my choices will affect my future well-being.  And lastly, through it all, keeping a playful spirit and enjoying each moment privately, and/or with the people who are in my company at the time.

Starting my Meetup groups have truly proven to be one of the best things I could have done, particularly as it relates to being around like-minded people who are up for the challenge, friendly and fun to be with!

I am still lovin' the song 'Happy'.  Many mornings I play it as I am getting my day started.  it is still here for you to enjoy: Listen here...
Or, check out the Atlanta Police Dept. Happy Video...you'll love it!

My Healthy Habit Tips:
  1. Be Persistent in your quest to become your authentic self.     
  2. Be Practical in the planning the steps you take to reach your goals. 
  3. Be Prudent about your choices and decisions, for they will definitely have an impact, big or small, on your future.   
  4. Be Playful and enjoy life!  Don't take yourself so seriously. Have fun, smile and sing and dance like no one is listening or watching...who cares if they are?!   

"Be Silly. Be Honest. Be Kind."        Ralph Waldo Emerson 


Declare Your Independence Hike
Pine Mountain Trail
F. D. Roosevelt State Park
Pine Mountain, GA
 
Saturday, July 5
Rating:  Moderately Difficult  
Distance: 8 Miles 

Instructions & Introductions:   8:00a.m. 
Departure:  8:15a.m.

Meeting Place
:
Big Lots! Parking Lot
6851 Shannon Pkwy, Union City, GA 30291  

Register Here
Wolf Den Loop: (6.7 miles) This is considered one of the most beautiful stretches of trail in the Southeast and is the most popular section of trail. The loop is formed with the 1.7 mile Beaver Pond Trail and 5 miles of the main Pine Mountain Trail. We will start at the parking lot near the WJSP-TV tower.

 
As always, wear comfortable (not new) shoes and layered clothing. We will carpool, so please be prepared to donate $10 to the driver that covers gas and parking.  Speaking of 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.  And, feel free to tip your hike leader(s), to show your appreciation for a job well done!

Bring a minimum of 3 bottles of water, snacks and lunch. There is no place close to the area to purchase lunch, so be sure to pack a healthy one. Be prepared for a long day.    

Don't forget the Leave No Trace ethics and 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.

 
Please feel free to call me, should you have any questions or concerns.  I can be reached at 678.231.4973.  


FEATURED EVENTS...


Adventure Fun Weekend in Blue Ridge Mountains
November 2014

More info to come.   Click Here if you are interested.

____________________________________________________________ 


Let's Play in the Sand, in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
August 7 - 10, 2014  Friday - Sunday
We will join the Southern Snow Seekers for this great fun Summerfest!  Yes, they love to ski, but they also love to have fun...all yet-round!  Join us with our friends at the Southern Snow Seekers Club for a fun weekend in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

 

You can choose to enjoy 3 or 4 days (or more) of fabulous weather, fantastic fun, and friendly people...plus a lot more!  Download the flyer for more details.
 

We will be staying at the Melia Caribe Tropical Resort It offers an ideal setting for Summerfest 2014.  The fabulous Meli� Caribe Tropical sets the standard for all-inclusive hotels in Punta Cana.

 

The beach at the Meli� Caribe Tropical is only one of the resort's many impressive features. The Punta Cana resort has over a dozen restaurants to choose from, giving you access to unique, international dining experiences.

There is a world-class golf course right across the street, an exciting casino and exhilarating activities from tennis, to live musical performances. The Meli� Caribe Tropical was chosen for Summerfest 2014, because it is the perfect place to play in the sand, have fun in the sun, and mix and mingle with wonderful people!

 

The resort is located just 20 minutes (12 miles) from the Punta Cana International Airport.

 

PLEASE NOTE: Airfare is not included in the posted costs.  You are responsible for your own air into Punta Cana (PUJ).  AirTran & Delta have direct flights.  You can also choose to fly American Airlines, which flies thru MIA into PUJ, Spirit airlines, and others also fly into PUJ.

 

If you want more information, contact me by return email, or give me a call at 678.231.4973.    

 

Don't know much about the ski club, or even if you do...

Click photo to check out this great video about the Southern Snow Seekers! 

Southern Snow Seekers Ski Club...over 25 years

____________________________________________________________ 

Upcoming Events Preview

Jul 5            Pine Mountain Hike - Pine Mountain, GA
Jul 11-13     Cumberland Island Weekend Getaway & Tour
Jul 12         Tallulah Gorge Sliding Rock Adventure
Jul 20         Southern Snow Seekers Ski Club Annual BBQ - Trammell Crow Park
Aug 8-15     Salvador da Bahla, Brazil - more info to follow
Aug 16        Conasauga River Snorkel Adventure
Oct 3-5        Hot Air Balloon Fiesta - Albuquerque, New Mexico
Oct 10-12    Sapelo Island Service Weekend w/Georgia Conservancy
Oct 16-26    Senegal and the Gambia, Africa - more info to follow
Oct 25-26    Widerness First Aid Certification - REI Atlanta Store
Nov 14-16   Sapelo / Cabretta Island Weekend Adventure Trip
Nov 8-19     Johannesburg and Capetown, South Africa - more info to follow
Nov 9-15     LeadHERship Cruise - Leisure & Learning - Carnival

For more information on a specific event, please send an email to: [email protected]
___________________________________________________________

JUST FOR YOU...


FREE State Park Parking Passes
Did you know that you can go to your local library and check out a Georgia State Park parking pass, just as you would a book and use it for entry to any of the state parks.  You do have to have a valid library card. Parking fees are usually $5.00.  You can call and have them hold it for you, as each branch does not have many, and they are checked out all the time.  Click here to find a branch in your area.

Or, of course, you can purchase an Annual State Park parking pass.


Health Tidbits
Summer is here.  Get out of doors more.  Get out in the morning before it gets too hot.  You will find that a brisk walk helps get you in a great mood, builds your energy level and helps open your mind to new positive ideas.  And, of course, i invite you, when possible, to join me and our group on my monthly, first Saturday hikes.  You are guaranteed to have some fun with friendly people, as we bask in the wonders of Mother Nature.  Also, drink a lot of water.  If yo think you are drinking enough now,  drink more, you will need it.  You do not want to experience dehydration while out on the tail.

Warm weather is a great time to increase your intake of fresh fruits and vegetables. Visit your local farmers market, if you don't have your own garden, and relish in the delectable fruits and vegetables of the season. I shop at my local farmer's market several times a week.  It is also a time to try tasty new, easy and simple recipes.  i am trying some new fruit and fruit and vegetable combinations in my smoothies, and in my juicing recipes. I plan to have a mango and pineapple smoothie this morning, I might throw in a couple of strawberries to top it off...ummm! 

Love much, Laugh often, Learn something new, and Live Long & Strong!


Hiking & Outdoor Adventure Tips
Male Hiker
As day hikers, we need high energy foods that are easy to carry and require little or no preparation. Foods that are convenient for quick stops and snacks are often the best.  These items include fresh or dried fruit, granola bars, cheese cubes, crackers, and trail mix (a mix of nuts, raisins and/or other dried fruit) are good for snacks. Bagels, pita bread, flour tortillas or English muffins are good with peanut butter, cheese, tuna, hummus or other items spread on them for a more healthy lunch.

Super important are fluids...water.  For easy to moderate hikes, you may find that you consume 2 or more liters of water. Dehydration is to be avoided at all costs. it can result in loss of energy at a minimum and can lead to reduction in the body's ability to properly function, and finish the hike. 

Day Hiking Checklist
Download a copy of the suggested Day Hiking Checklist from REI.  Click here to download a copy.

Warm Weather Hiking Attire
Wear a synthetic layer next to your skin to wick away moisture from perspiration. If you must hike in cotton T-shirts and shorts, carry other clothing to change into should the weather turn cool. Cotton soaks up moisture and doesn't dry readily, leaving you wet and chilly when activity slows or should the wind pick up. It is also a good idea to have dry clothes and footwear in the car to change into at the end of some of the more strenuous hike!

Hiking Boots...

...How to Choose

You want to be sure you know the options when choosing hiking boots. Consider 'summer' hiking boots. Read this article from REI.

...Breaking in Your New Hiking Boots

You never want to hike in brand new boots.  Read this article from REI on  how you should break in your new boots.
Click Here to read the article from REI.

...Hiking Boot Care
You want to take proper care of your boots. Read this article from REI on how to care for your boots.
Click Here to read the article from REI.


How to Choose Trekking Poles and Hiking Sticks

Trekking poles are standard equipment for many hikers. They enhance your stability and support on all types of terrain.

Read this article from REI to help you learn what to consider when shopping for trekking poles and staffs. 

 

The Basics of Hydration

Your body is more than 60% water, and even light physical activity can deplete that percentage. No fluid means no function!

This loss of fluid is called dehydration. And hydrating, or adding fluids, is the key to keeping it from happening to you.

 

 Click Here to read the article from REI.

How to Choose a Day Pack

For any activity that involves more gear than you can carry in your pocket, especially for hiking, you need a daypack.

 

Daypacks may look similar at first glance but have lots of functional differences. Read the article from REI that is designed to give you some helpful tips on finding the right one  for your needs.

 

 Click Here to read the article from REI.

Outdoor Gear Rental
Want to go camping but don't have a tent or sleeping bag?  No problem... rent your equipment from REI, for a nominal fee for the weekend. You can get, based on availability: 
  • Tents REI
  • Backpacks
  • Sleeping Bags/Pads
  • Camping Stoves 
Just call the REI store nearest you, and see what they have available.