Ups and Downs Together

Ups and Downs Together
            As a kid growing up in the Adirondack Foothills, I loved walking alone through fields of high green grass in summer, under red maples highlighted by golden light in autumn, and over pristine snow-covered paths in winter. (“Alone” means without fellow humans, but my faithful beagle Spike often joined me.)
            I also loved walking with my dad, brothers and friends. The camaraderie that comes with walking together—sometimes talking, sometimes not—is a priceless treasure.
            My younger son struggled to overcome sensory overload and other autism-related challenges to get out in the world, despite the lure of natural beauty here in Northern California. Walks by our family of four became akin to my walks alone as a kid, though our isolation was not a choice.
            Through my HikingAutism.com website, a local autism organization asked me to offer group hikes and introduce area trails to other families. Now my family enjoys the privilege of walking and talking together with many wonderful families in the autism and disabilities community.
            These hikes provide opportunities to share the ups and downs of our lives as we share the ascents and descents of the trails.
            Walking alone is a highlight of my life, but walking together with others expands our hearts and minds while also lifting our spirits. If you have the chance, invite someone to walk together!
            This week’s Hike Notes, Hidden Villa-Los Altos Hills, introduces readers to the lovely Hidden Villa in Los Altos Hills, featuring picnic areas, gardens, pigs, goats, sheep and other farm animals, a creek under shady trees, and a wide variety of hiking trails to choose from.
            Check the Home page for the broader background story. Click Insights/Hike Update News for inspiring reflections. Browse hikes on the main Hikes page or on the Hike Search by Area page, and scroll to the bottom of each hike page to see full photo galleries.
            If you’d like to support HikingAutism, check out the Support/Shop page! Check out selected articles and interviews under Media. Click World Walks to see or share favorite family-friendly walks! Stay in touch with Lisa Louis and HikingAutism via Contact. The Links page lists a loose collection of helpful information links. Feel free to share and follow on Facebook at HikingAutism, follow on Twitter at @HikingAutism and Instagram at lisalouis777
New this week:
Hike Notes 203: Hidden Villa-Los Altos Hills