Shenandoah in the Fall

Days Left: 938
Goal #27: Go hiking in Shenandoah with friends

So... after four months living on the outskirts of the Sahel desert, a weekend in the Shenandoah mountains was just what the doctor ordered! I spend the weekend celebrating my dear friend Ashley's birthday. We rented a cabin in the woods and did some great hiking on Saturday.

I love fall....
The crisp air.
The brisk wind.
The dynamic colors.
The fresh smells of pumpkins and apples.

I am definitely an October baby!

Here we go! Off to hike in the mountains... Taking the scenic route for sure and no...we are not planning on littering

My dear friends Devon and Sarah from grad school. I absolutely adore these two ladies. (I'm the chick in the Americana flannel on the right looking off into the gorgeous horizon)

Me with Nima and Jess.. two other great people from grad school. I truly feel so lucky that I met such interesting and kind people at Columbia. 

Ohhhhh Tom. How I adore this gentleman. Tom is one of the first people I met at Columbia. I have tremendous respect for him.

Here is a group of us relaxing post-hike in the hot tub. Nothing like cold beer and hot water to soothe your body and soul after the brisk hike.

Goodness... I can actually smell fall just looking at these pictures. No better way to enjoy the Shenandoah mountains than with these fabulous people. I am so grateful for my friends in DC!