I know I have mentioned a few times on air that I’ve been dieting and I’m not sure I’ve mentioned all the exercise I’m getting. This all started in January.

I have two ways I get my sweat on. I’ve found several workouts on YouTube and I’ve been walking a lot. My standard walking place is Moreland Park. I’ve also incorporated the block around the SportsCenter for some laps.

Now I know there are many walking trails in and outside of Owensboro, and my sister, who is also on a fitness/diet journey, mentioned she went to the Rudy Mines Trails past Ben Hawes State Park for a walk. So, on one of the hottest days last week, I decided to give the trails a try. Wow is an understatement.

Erin Grant
Erin Grant
loading...

I missed the turn-in for the trails twice. I thought it was inside Ben Hawes, but no, it’s a few more ticks up the road, and the entrance is simple and there are few implements of a mining nature staged around the beginning. I only saw one entrance so I set off, not sure what was going to happen. I kept texting my sister asking what the deal is, and she told me “Follow the signs” and I took her advice. You have to keep in mind, there is also a biking trail that at moments intertwines with the hiking trail. Yes, this wasn’t a walk, this was a real deal hike.

Erin Grant
Erin Grant
loading...

I was instantly transported back to exploring the woods, paths, and caves behind my Morris grandparents' house. By the way, you had to go downhill and when you wanted to go back to the house, you had to hike up the hill. The terrain was very familiar.

Erin Grant
Erin Grant
loading...

The path was covered with both embedded and fallen branches. I had to watch my feet almost the entire time. What worried me the most is that I barely saw any other people. At first, I hit a place where the hiking and biking trails crossed; there were a few folks taking a break. I eventually saw two gentlemen when I hit an open space.

Erin Grant
Erin Grant
loading...
Get our free mobile app

Thank goodness I took water with me because I normally don’t. I started listening to a podcast, but I realized I was going to need some music to really take it all in i.e. get me through. I talked and walked with the guys for a while then I pulled ahead, but again I wasn't going for speed, I was going for distance.

Erin Grant
Erin Grant
loading...

At one point, I didn't think I would find the end, but with the muggy heat, I forged on and I took this selfie which I didn't notice something else in the frame.

Erin Grant
Erin Grant
loading...

A bug!? I know I had many things landing on me and I could feel bugs getting in my hair, but I don't think I got any bites.

As I finally saw the parking lot which appeared out of nowhere I had one more companion greet me.

Erin Grant
Erin Grant
loading...

Seriously? I saw at least 10 or more snake holes along the trail but no inhabitants. I just quietly passed by this critter and I returned to the air conditioning of my car.

I think I walked maybe 3.5 miles. I know I walked around out there for well over an hour. The distance on the trail is 7.5 miles. When I can find the time and when the temp isn't quite as steamy, oh and when I can procure a larger bottle of water, I'll give it another go.

Rejected Kentucky Personalized License Plates

There are some rejections here that are real head scratchers. For others, you might be able to deduce the reason. For others still, it's kind of obvious. None in this list, however, fall into the NSFW category.