Rocky Fork Fun: Amber’s Birchfield Camp Adventure Before Davy Steps In
Hi, everybody! It’s me, Amber! A couple of weeks ago, Mama and I hopped in the car for an adventure — something we haven’t been able to do as much lately because she’s been super busy at the horse farm. I didn’t know where we were going, but honestly, I didn’t care. I was just thrilled to be heading out for a hike!
We ended up at one of my very favorite places in the whole world: Rocky Fork State Park. I love this park so much — the cold creek water, the endless sniffs, the friendly dogs I usually meet, and the quiet, peaceful trails where I get special Mama time. It’s basically my version of heaven.
This time, Mama turned us up the White Oak Flats Trail, which is one of my absolute favorites. It climbs way up into the woods, follows a sweet little creek, and always has squirrels to chase. We haven’t been on that trail in forever, so I was practically vibrating with excitement. We made it all the way to the overlook (it’s so pretty up there!) and then kept going — my favorite thing!
I thought we were heading toward the Headwaters Trail like we used to, but Mama surprised me and turned us onto the Birchfield Camp Trail instead. She told me the highest point in the entire Tennessee State Park system is somewhere along that trail, so we decided to try to find it. Spoiler alert: we didn’t. But I didn’t mind. I sniffed everything, splashed in every tiny puddle pretending to be a creek, and soaked up every minute.
Mama said we needed to turn around because this was the longest hike I’ve done since I got sick a few months ago. I tried to tell her we hadn’t found the special spot yet, but she said we’d come back soon and finish the trail. I’m holding her to that!
On the way back, I rechecked all the sniffy spots, splashed in the big creek, and even met a pretty dog named Goose. I wanted to play longer, but Mama said Daddy and Davy would be worried if we didn’t head home. So I took one last swim and then led Mama back to the car.
It was such a good day — even if we didn’t go quite as far as I wanted.
Mama says I need to rest for a while now because I’m very sick again. I’m being brave, but hiking is going to be off the schedule for a bit. Don’t worry — I’ll still be here! I might share some of my favorite past adventures, and Mama says my little brother Davy might help keep the page updated with his own hikes while I get better. Davy says he’s ready to step up as “Temporary Adventure Dog.” He’s already practicing his sniffing, his creek‑splashes, and his “posing for photos like a majestic potato.”
I love you all. I love hiking. And I can’t wait to get back on the trails when my body is ready. Love, Amber
A Note from Mama: Amber is very sick again, and we’re facing another round of the same unexplained illness she had back in December and January. Our vets (and the specialists) still don’t know what’s causing it, and while they’re treating her the best they can, we’re preparing ourselves for the possibility that she may not recover this time.
Even so, Amber is fighting with all the courage she has, and we’re holding onto hope. She’s surrounded by love, comfort, and her family — and she knows she’s safe.
She won’t be hiking for a while, but she’ll still be here in spirit. Davy may take over the adventure posts for a bit, and Amber might share some of her favorite memories from past hikes. Thank you for supporting her and loving her through every step of her journey.
