This is the second city that I've joined some Meet Up groups. I belong to a vegan Meet Up (I've only been to one event so far, small turnout but nice people) and just recently joined a hiking group. The group had a hike today at a local nature sanctuary that I've never been to, so I thought I would give it a try, even with the prediction of rain at 50%.
People have told me that the idea of going to join a bunch of strangers to hike through the forest is crazy, bordering on dangerous. It is an amazing concept, isn't it? I guess it should be kinda scary, but for whatever reason, it hasn't been for me. It's actually pretty neat (do people still use that word?) for all these different people to come together because of a common interest. That being said, I do take a few precautions, always letting someone know where I'm going (today was my sister) and I took along some pepper spray in my backpack.
Sixteen people showed up for hike today. Pretty gloomy day, threat of rain present all day. It was billed as a spring wildflower hike and there were several flowers that we struggled to find names for. It was just so nice to be outside.
See how happy I look to be outside. Told ya. I had a really nice time, the hike was about 5 miles and wasn't super challenging. Everyone was friendly, met some fellow runners, even a girl who is running in the same 5K I am tomorrow. My only complaint was that the 2 girls hiking behind me kept up a constant stream of chatter. It was starting to get annoying toward the end of the hike. I like to be a bit more contemplative when I'm out in nature like that, just enjoy the sounds and sights and get into my head. But at the very least, this group is a way to make myself get out and about and learn about some trails that perhaps I can go back to alone if I want a different experience.
check out a Meet Up group. I dare you to join one. And then actually go to an event.
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