Cedar Falls

Saturday
"The best remedy for those who are afraid, lonely or unhappy is to go outside, somewhere where they can be quiet, alone with the heavens, nature and God. Because only then does one feel that all is as it should be and that God wishes to see people happy, amidst the simple beauty of nature. As long as this exists, and it certainly always will, I know that then there will always be comfort for every sorrow, whatever the circumstances may be. And I firmly believe that nature brings solace in all troubles."
Anne Frank

I certainly agree with the sentiments in the above passage - it nearly always works for me. Whilst we weren't exactly alone with Nature today it was definitely wonderful and uplifting.It was a beautiful day after a cool start, and I don't think I have seen Hocking Hills look any better in the numerous times we have been there. There was a decent amount of water in the waterfalls, the weather was bright, sunny and clear and everything was so fresh and green. When Roger and I were there last year in late summer, the waterfalls were totally dry - in fact the guy in the campground office said they were almost empty this time last year . And then later in the summer it gets so hot and humid and therefore views are more hazy.
After breakfast (why does food always taste so much better outdoors?), we went first to Cedar Falls and walked along the stream to the falls. Then we moved on to Cantwell Cliffs, stopping to pick up some picnic supplies on the way. We had our picnic then walked around that area. Finally we went to Old Mans Cave area, where there is a series of waterfalls and a large recess cave. We were bemused at one point by this girl who was wearing really tall stiletto heels - not your usual hiking foorwear!. But when we reached the first falls, we saw why - someone was having an outdoor wedding on the beach area infront of the falls - white wedding dress, long bridesmaids dresses, guys in tuxes and hats - the works! I still dont know how the bride and bridesmaids got there without getting their dresses filthy! They certainly picked a gorgeous spot and were really lucky with the weather - I wonder if they had a back-up plan in case it rained.
Then it was back to the campsite, dinner and more smores round the campfire!