I hiked. And survived. (What I don't do for a photo shoot.)

Today I hiked so deep into the woods of Virginia I really thought that I might not make it out.

We took some amazing photos for our shoot.

This was after I twisted my ankle last night and swore that I wasn't going back. I went back this morning. Huffing and puffing, reaching for branches to stabalize my city-slicker self, I wasn't sure I'd ever get out of the deep canyon where we climbed for our photo shoot.

Right when I thought I couldn't breathe any more, we hit this. I could breathe.

 Our subjects were delightful. (And patient in showing me how to climb steep hills and over slippery moss-covered rocks. I even learned what "bushwhacking" means. These ladies are fierce. And lovely.)

Here I am with our fantastic stylist Celine, who makes everything more beautiful. (She encouraged me to get up each time I slipped a little. Thanks Celine.)

So, back in Birmingham, I'm achey, and getting ready to ice my ankle. But I saw this:

Then drank this at a place called Devil's Backbone, with the most amazing view of the mountains and their fall colors.

Also wrote an essay with the finer details of this adventure (will post later). Putting finishing touches on that. Glad I did it -- all of it. Looking forward to sharing more of the story ...

Comments

[Katherine Moody Brooks]

Dear Erin--how wonderful to meet and work with you in the Virginia Blue Ridge Mountains! I think you were a champ to venture into unknown territory (literally) with my hiking girlfriends! I had no idea that you had twisted your ankle when I suggested that it might be a good idea to bushwack out of the canyon by the waterfall! So, I'm very impressed with your tenacity!!! We had a wonderful hike on Three Ridges Trail (just posted some pics on FB) after we left you all today. Then had dinner at Blue Ridge Brewery on the way home. Lots of conversations on our return to Richmond about a new adventure with me, Carrington, Frankie and Anne....details not posted here until we finalize our ideas. But it is going to be a doozy...maybe you will be interested in following our adventureous journey! Thanks so much for your warm hospitality and opportunity to share outdoor, bonding activities with your Southern Living readers. Warmest regards, Kathy Brooks