​On Trails is subtitled 'An Exploration', but it might be more accurately labeled as author and hiker Robert Moor's meditations on trails: why they exist, how they come to be, and, most importantly, why they are followed.  After a youth spent feeling like a self-described drifter, Moor set out in 2009 to hike the entire length of the Appalachian Trail (“AT”), from Springer Mountain, Georgia, to Mount Katahdin, Maine.  As one would imagine when walking more than 2000 miles over a period of multiple months with limited stimulation other than the passing woods around him, he spent plenty of time with his own thoughts.  As Moor hiked the trail, he began to consider the history of trails like the AT and how they come to be.  Given the title, it is surprising how far and wide, and with what can occasionally feel like aimless intent, he wonders in search of answers, but the patient reader will be rewarded with some thoughtful and beautifully conveyed writing.

​Bamboo. It’s not only the star of the Villon logo, but it is also a pretty amazing plant. Bamboo’s resume is impressive. It’s touted as being one of the fastest growing plants in the world, one of the strongest materials in the world, and is considered by some to be a superfood because of its high nutritional density. Bamboo grows everywhere with the exception of cold climates, including the United States, but it is thought to have originated in China. 

​Walking down the city street I looked up and saw the work of street artists.  The orange spray paint contrasted with the buildings beige stucco. My mind wandered. Who are these unnamed creatives? When did they start? What’s their motivation?

I’ve overheard a lot of people who are apprehensive about the idea of getting packages delivered via drone. Escalated a bit, how would you like your mail delivered to you via rocket? Sounds ridiculous, but in 1959 the USS Barbero submarine fired a Regulus cruise missile, its nuclear warhead having been replaced by two Post Office Department mail containers, towards the Naval Auxiliary Air Station at Naval Station Mayport in Florida. ​

When: August 2016
Where: Orlando --> Los Angeles-->Salinas-->Bear Valley
Traveler’s: 2
Equipment: Tent, camping gear
Budget: $1,800 (airfare, car rental, gas, food)

​

​Saltwater Buddha is an autobiographical account of journalist Jaimal Yogis’ journies in his late teens and early twenties to discover himself and learn to surf.  

The story begins at the age of 16 when he runs away from his comfortable, but disaffected, NorCal suburban life, where he is apparently suffering from the boredom and monotony-induced disease we now called "Affluenza" and on his way to juvenile delinquency.  Seeking the comfort and nostalgia of time spent in his youth on the coast of Portugal prior to his parent's divorce, he heads for Hawaii.  His goal is ostensibly to learn to surf, but also, and perhaps more importantly, to leave behind the negative influences and find himself.  

​Who: Kaitlin Donner
What: New Wave Physical Therapy & Sports Rehabilitation
Where: 7125 Turner Rd Ste 101B, Rockledge, FL 32955
When: Monday - Friday 7am-6pm; Saturday 12pm - 4pm; Closed Sunday
 
Kaitlin Shiver Donner, a Satellite Beach native and decorated athlete, opened an outpatient orthopedic physical therapy clinic in February of this year specializing in sports rehab and local athletes. She met with us to discuss her background and provide tips and exercises for surfers and board athletes.