“Help!” (to the tune of the Beatles classic)

“Help!” (to the tune of the Beatles classic)
            Don’t need help. Don’t want help. Don’t know how to accept help when it’s offered.
            That was my mantra most of my life, as it is for many others—until we face something that we just can’t get through without some sort of support: Emotional, physical, financial, medical, logistical—whatever it is we need to survive.
            We finally found a wonderful helper when our son’s neurodevelopmental challenges had us virtually trapped in our own home. And then our helper passed away. He wouldn’t have wanted us to give up, so we reached out and found wonderful new helpers.
            Whatever your troubles, take a deep breath and ask for help. Ask again. Someone is out there to help you.
            If you are capable of helping others, offer it. If declined the first time, offer again—to the same person or someone else.
            This week’s Hike Notes are about a place my son and I went with our new outdoor helper shortly after the loss of our first “miracle worker.” Something about Tennessee Valley made me feel for the first time in our grief that I might feel hope and happiness again.
            Tennessee Valley is about 3.5 miles round trip, with only moderate grades to climb. The reward of reaching the small but dramatic beach at the end of the valley is worth the walk.
            Please feel free to share. If you’re not able to take one of these Northern California hikes, hopefully you can enjoy the photos!
Hike Notes 1: Marin Headlands Visitor Center to Rodeo Beach
Hike Notes 2: Fitzgerald Marine Reserve
Hike Notes 3: Lands End Lookout to Mile Rock Beach
Hike Notes 4: Muir Beach to Pirates Cove
Hike Notes 5: Devil’s Slide
Hike Notes 6: Wave Organ- Crissy Field
Hike Notes 7: Tennessee Valley