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Central & South Central Ohio Hikers, Nature Enthusiasts, prompt lovers, and creative writing readers.
The Prompt that made me Pause
Prompt 16 that gave me pause and brought me to Rising Park. Whatās one small improvement I can make in my life? I sat with it for longer than expected, not because I didnāt have answers, but because I had too many. They all seemed to circle back to the same thing: time. Or more specifically, how little of it I give to the things that actually fill me up.
I stretch myself thin between shifts at the nursing home. I write almost daily and try to grow Poeaxtryās reach. I also manage projects and collabs that matter to me. I love it all. I want to be the person who shows up for everyone. Iāve realized lately that I donāt always show up for myself. So, I made a promise. I will take more time for the parts of life that make me feel present. They should not make me feel just productive. I am not a machine. I do not have to be productive every moment I am awake, and I need to remind myself of that.
Now we are at Rising Park in Lancaster, Ohio
Thatās how Luna and I ended up back at Rising Park today, just 40 minutes from home. Itās one of our go-to spots. Though the steep trail can be done in under a 30-minute lunch break, it never feels rushed. The incline kicks up fast. Before we know it, weāre at the overlook. Lancaster, Ohio spills out below us in a quiet sprawl of rooftops, trees, and tiny cars. Every season here has its own version of clarity. Today did not disappoint. It was a perfect 67 degrees. The breeze added a pleasant touch. The green had its full May glow, and the smell of rain clung to the air.
This park has always felt like a reset button. Something about the climb clears my mind. By the time we reach the top, both Luna and I have shaken off the heaviness. We didnāt even realize we were carrying it. She runs a little harder here, ears flying back, like she knows this place was built for exhaling. While I breathe deeper here too. It’s not because Iām out of shape. I just lost 60 lbs. It’s because the view forces you to slow down and take it in.
Reminders from Today
Today reminded me that recharging isnāt selfish. Giving myself a few hours to move and reflect is healing. Being somewhere beautiful with my dog is one of the most grounding things I can do. Small improvement? Maybe. But the kind that shifts everything else a little closer to balance. Itās insane what a small amount of time with the trees can do for my whole vibe.
Rising Park 2026 Malabar Farm State Park
Sustainable Hiking Leave No Trace
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