Mountain Biking

Being centrally located in NC, High Point is only a short drive away from some of the best protected nature reserves and national parks in the Country.  The Appalachian mountains extend all the way from Quebec, Canada down to South Carolina.  The blue ridge range stretches through Virginia and Western North Carolina.  Mt. Mitchell, the highest peak in the entire Appalachian mountain range is in Western North Carolina.  

One of my favorite places in Western North Carolina is Nantahala National Forest.  There is a popular mountain biking destination called Tsali Trails that has some of the most challenging riding terrain.  There’s multiple loops and trails, each with varying difficulty.  Some of the longer more scenic trails take you by quarries and large over looks of the blue ridge mountain range.  There’s always lots of people there using the trails, each with different levels of riding skills.  The area is so large that you rarely encounter other bikers on the trail, as they are all one way.    

You can bring your own mountain bike if you are a serious rider, or if you want to test the trails out renting from a local bike shop is an easy alternative.  There you will learn the proper riding techniques to conquer Tsali Trails with your new bike.  Be sure to have a back pack with the trail map, plenty of water, energy bar, and first aid kit.  Helmets are mandatory on the trails, and you will quickly see why!

Growing fresh herbs and spices

This week I wanted to start my own spice garden.  Having fresh spices to add to your dishes can totally change a meal.  Spices are fun and easy to grow, and require little up keep.  Some of the most widely used spices are basil, tyme, oregano, paprika, chili powder, and bay leaves.  Each one is great in certain types of food.  Like bay with spaghetti sauce, rosemary with poultry, and garlic or basil with just about everything.

As I become more interested in cooking and grilling, I'm learning the importance of incorporating fresh herbs and spices into my dishes.  Now that I have the space, I wanted to have access to fresh seasonings and even vegetables.

First thing I did was fill the planter box with potting soil 1 inch below the top.  Then made holes for the seeds 1/2 an inch down.  

Then a few basil seeds in each hole spaced evenly.

Then patted down the soil and watered heavily.

It will be exciting to watch these seeds grow into a fresh basil plant.  If i have a high enough yield, I could make fresh pesto.  I will keep my blog updated with progress from these seeds in upcoming posts.  Stay tuned!

This is my attempt at growing kale.  I planted the seeds 3 weeks ago, but this hot North Carolina summer has stunted the plants growth.  I plan on re planting more closer to Fall.

Introduction

I recently moved into my first house, a single floored, 3-bedroom house with a deceivingly large back yard.  Upon first sight of the layout and size, I was determined to make the most of this green land. The back yard enthusiast blog aims to discuss a wide variety of back yard activities.  From sports, to grilling, to pet proofing your yard, we'll discuss it all.

I find there's is no better way to relax after a long day of being productive, than to enjoy your own private back yard sanctuary.  Your own escape from the bustle and chaos of the city around you.  By customizing the surrounding of your space, you can transform an ordinary back yard into a daily destination of relaxation.

I will be updating my blog every week, documenting my adventures in making the most of my new found territory. With plenty of tips and ideas to help you truly appreciate the outdoors of where we reside.