The valleys were really more about the journey into and out of the valley, than the valley itself.

Often, you could see where the path crested and would head into the valley, but what made that more difficult is that you could often see the climb out.

The paths into the valleys were often difficult. They were steep and sometimes covered in rocks and leaves. Each step had to be made carefully to avoid falling. And then often, you could see the trail up high, that you knew you'd have to climb to get out of the valley.

Somewhere along the way though, I stopped dreading the descent into the valley. There was shade to cool us off and often beautiful framing of the landscapes by the trees. I got stronger and more sure of my balance and footing over the days. But I was still careful to avoid falling.

We learned to stroll in the valley, and rest, instead of using easy ground to make up time. It was in the slowing down that we caught the glimpse of the poppy field and got to experience the joy of it! And I also learned to stop letting the dread of the climb out steal the joy that could be found in the valley. I learned to be present where I was and not worry about what was next.

When we got to the start of the climb, we would stop in the shade, drink our water and then start the climb out. And whenever needed, we would stop for a drink of water, there was no need to hurry the climb. Often we would turn and look back and be awed by the beauty behind us, it helped us remember why we were making the climb.

(For my friends who share the same faith as me, this is such a beautiful metaphor of life with Jesus. If we stop fearing the valleys, we will get stronger for each one. And like the water we need physically, our souls need the Living Water, so stop and drink, don't rush through this life. Don't rush through the valleys either, you never know what treasures hide there. No matter how hard it seems, you will make the climb out. Take it at your own pace and stop to look back from time to time to remember the beauty of the hilltop that will come again. And keep in mind, you can't see the full beauty of the valley until you're at the top, so just keep climbing.)

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've included a few pictures from the perspective of the valley.