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Gators, Guts, & Glory: Adventures Along the Florida Trail
Wander on the wild and humorous side of adventure with long distance hiker Lauralee Bliss (trail name Blissful), hiking the 1,100-mile Florida Trail from Big Cypress National Preserve to Gulf Islands National Seashore. From alligators and cottonmouths to tenting among the palmettos and walking on water, from forests of cypress knees and lofty pine to the help of trail angels along the way, “Blissful” uncovers the hidden gems of glory in this National Scenic Trail with a unique journey unlike any other.
- GenresAdventure
267 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 15, 2019
3 people are currently reading
42 people want to read
About the author
Lauralee Bliss
47 books178 followersLauralee Bliss is a published author of over thirty Christian romance novels and novellas in both historical and contemporary with nearly 600,000 sold. In 2018 she received a 25-book published award from ACFW. Her recent releases are Escape from Amsterdam and two books in the Angel Series - Christmas Angels of Virginia and Angel in the Crossroad.
Lauralee enjoys writing books reminiscent of a roller coaster ride for the reader. Her desire is for readers to come away with an entertaining story and a lesson that ministers to the heart. Her new imprint HeartSoul Press exemplifies this.
Lauralee is also an avid hiker, hiking the entire Appalachian Trail twice from Georgia to Maine and from Maine to Georgia, one of only 24 women to accomplish this feat. She has also completed other trails totaling over 10,000 miles including the Florida Trail of which her Florida Trail adventure "Gators, Guts and Glory" is part of the Hiking Adventure Series along with Mountains, Madness and Miracles - 4000 Miles Along the Appalachian Trail.
Lauralee enjoys writing books reminiscent of a roller coaster ride for the reader. Her desire is for readers to come away with an entertaining story and a lesson that ministers to the heart. Her new imprint HeartSoul Press exemplifies this.
Lauralee is also an avid hiker, hiking the entire Appalachian Trail twice from Georgia to Maine and from Maine to Georgia, one of only 24 women to accomplish this feat. She has also completed other trails totaling over 10,000 miles including the Florida Trail of which her Florida Trail adventure "Gators, Guts and Glory" is part of the Hiking Adventure Series along with Mountains, Madness and Miracles - 4000 Miles Along the Appalachian Trail.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
June 7, 2023
Love reading Lauralee "Blissful" Bliss's hiking adventures! I learn so much!
August 10, 2019
Why it Takes True Grit to Read This Book
Okay, so it doesn’t. It takes true grit to live it. Yep, this trail blazer’s (okay, hiker’s) memoir makes me feel lazy. Still, there was that moment, brief though it was, that I thought, “I should at least hike some small trail someday. I like hiking.”
Yeah. I’d always loved it—when I was young, had energy, and was half the person I am now. Literally. Oh, and in places like Wheeler Springs, California where lovely creeks kept me cool and refreshed and where I could ride down the mountain anytime I liked.
“Blissful” isn’t the wimp I am.
Written in an engaging, encouraging style, Gators, Guts, & Glory shares the good, the bad, and the amazing in her memoir/adventure guide of her trek up the Florida Trail—all 1,000 miles of it (or so Wikipedia claims).
I’m still reeling from that.
I think Gators, Guts, & Glory said something about 1,100 miles. Surely, that was a typo. I mean, I thought maybe the 1,000 was a typo—a stuttering zero at the end or something.
Lauralee Bliss tells tales of meeting gators—both stone and real. Poisonous trees—trees! Blisters… I mean, duh! And so much more. A book that hadn’t interested me much to begin with turned out to be a delight. I kept getting interrupted while I read it, so before I pass it on to #1grandson and then to a friend’s hiker husband, I’m going to read it one more time.
Seriously, one of the best things about the book is that you feel like you’re talking with someone you just met at a restaurant.
“Hi! How are you? What brought you here?”
“Oh, just hiking 1,000 miles through swamps and mud bogs for the fun of it…”
“Do tell!”
So she did!
And I for one am glad. Seriously, I loved the book and, to my own shock, I’m off to buy the other one she has on hiking the Appalachian Trail. I mean, come on! I go there, to the Appalachias EVERY YEAR! That means I needed to read this book of all the things I could do if I wasn’t so lazy, was half the woman I am, and didn’t live an opposite schedule from the more sane elements of humanity!
Recommended for anyone who enjoys engaging true stories, hiking, or just seeing someone face difficult odds with a smile on her face. Oh… and clean. I love that it’s squeaky clean so I can hand it over to my grandson! I’m grateful for the free review copy, and I’m thrilled to say I loved it.
Okay, so it doesn’t. It takes true grit to live it. Yep, this trail blazer’s (okay, hiker’s) memoir makes me feel lazy. Still, there was that moment, brief though it was, that I thought, “I should at least hike some small trail someday. I like hiking.”
Yeah. I’d always loved it—when I was young, had energy, and was half the person I am now. Literally. Oh, and in places like Wheeler Springs, California where lovely creeks kept me cool and refreshed and where I could ride down the mountain anytime I liked.
“Blissful” isn’t the wimp I am.
Written in an engaging, encouraging style, Gators, Guts, & Glory shares the good, the bad, and the amazing in her memoir/adventure guide of her trek up the Florida Trail—all 1,000 miles of it (or so Wikipedia claims).
I’m still reeling from that.
I think Gators, Guts, & Glory said something about 1,100 miles. Surely, that was a typo. I mean, I thought maybe the 1,000 was a typo—a stuttering zero at the end or something.
Lauralee Bliss tells tales of meeting gators—both stone and real. Poisonous trees—trees! Blisters… I mean, duh! And so much more. A book that hadn’t interested me much to begin with turned out to be a delight. I kept getting interrupted while I read it, so before I pass it on to #1grandson and then to a friend’s hiker husband, I’m going to read it one more time.
Seriously, one of the best things about the book is that you feel like you’re talking with someone you just met at a restaurant.
“Hi! How are you? What brought you here?”
“Oh, just hiking 1,000 miles through swamps and mud bogs for the fun of it…”
“Do tell!”
So she did!
And I for one am glad. Seriously, I loved the book and, to my own shock, I’m off to buy the other one she has on hiking the Appalachian Trail. I mean, come on! I go there, to the Appalachias EVERY YEAR! That means I needed to read this book of all the things I could do if I wasn’t so lazy, was half the woman I am, and didn’t live an opposite schedule from the more sane elements of humanity!
Recommended for anyone who enjoys engaging true stories, hiking, or just seeing someone face difficult odds with a smile on her face. Oh… and clean. I love that it’s squeaky clean so I can hand it over to my grandson! I’m grateful for the free review copy, and I’m thrilled to say I loved it.
July 27, 2019
‘It’s not just about me walking a trail. It’s a journey of faith and hope and pointing to the One who cares for all on us....He will see me through to the end.’ - Blissful
What a fascinating book! I am not a hiker, and thus found this first person account of the author’s adventures hiking The Florida Trail almost unbelievable. I love a good walk, but 1,100 miles through bogs, streams, sucking mud, drought and more does not sound like an adventure I would be interested in. Never mind the idea of sleeping outdoors in a tent! It renewed my faith in mankind to read of those who willingly stepped out to help with places to stay, food, rides and even water caches. The amount of time and energy put into preparation for such an undertaking is only dwarfed by the actual hike itself. Mail drops with food, new shoes, clothing, etc. had to be planned and implemented.
The amount of detail really made me feel like I was hiking along and honestly wondering what interesting dilemmas might come next.
Learning more about this journey certainly makes me concur with the this line taken from the book - ‘Placing one’s faith in the unknown can be nerve-racking’! The exclamation point is my own addition and is indicative of my agreement with that statement, something we all learn whether we are hiking far from civilization or not.
I received an ARC through Whitefire Publishing and CelebrateLit. The impressions and opinions are my own.
What a fascinating book! I am not a hiker, and thus found this first person account of the author’s adventures hiking The Florida Trail almost unbelievable. I love a good walk, but 1,100 miles through bogs, streams, sucking mud, drought and more does not sound like an adventure I would be interested in. Never mind the idea of sleeping outdoors in a tent! It renewed my faith in mankind to read of those who willingly stepped out to help with places to stay, food, rides and even water caches. The amount of time and energy put into preparation for such an undertaking is only dwarfed by the actual hike itself. Mail drops with food, new shoes, clothing, etc. had to be planned and implemented.
The amount of detail really made me feel like I was hiking along and honestly wondering what interesting dilemmas might come next.
Learning more about this journey certainly makes me concur with the this line taken from the book - ‘Placing one’s faith in the unknown can be nerve-racking’! The exclamation point is my own addition and is indicative of my agreement with that statement, something we all learn whether we are hiking far from civilization or not.
I received an ARC through Whitefire Publishing and CelebrateLit. The impressions and opinions are my own.
August 7, 2019
I’m not a camper. The times in my life when I’ve camped have been precisely two: once, while in Italy visiting my penpal Monica, and the second time when the girls were very young (I’m thinking 1, 3, and 5) when my husband decided we’d “camp out” in the back of our van at some remote location. Neither time recalls very good memories, although I specifically remember during the first bout thinking, “I am in Italy! A lot of people would love this!” So having admitted that I enjoy the great outdoors in small quantities, I will give my thoughts on this book, where Lauralee describes her hiking of a trail over 1000 miles long through Florida.
Over and over, I found myself wondering why anyone would want to do this. Encounters with quicksand. Sinking into mud up to one’s hips. Hurriedly erecting a tent to escape hordes of mosquitoes. Hunger. Thirst. Once, Bliss describes her joy when someone finds her hiking and offers her a bed for the night and an ice cream bar. I had to wonder: why not just NOT DO THE HIKE AND HAVE A BED AND ICE CREAM WHENEVER YOU WANT? Ah, but I know. I’m not a hiker and I don’t truly understand all this.
Whether you’re a hiker or not, this book takes you inside of what goes on during a hike. I had imagined that hikers start a trail and keep hiking until they’re done. Not necessarily so — Lauralee starts the trail, then later goes home for a while before returning to hike the rest. Other times, a friend picks her up and drives her 90 miles to her house so she can spend the night out of the elements, then returns her to the same spot the next day to continue. Hiking must be expensive: she describes flying home and back to the trail, having her husband ship new shoes and supplies for her to pick up at a post office along the trail, etc. Interesting look into what it’s like to hike a long trail.
Over and over, I found myself wondering why anyone would want to do this. Encounters with quicksand. Sinking into mud up to one’s hips. Hurriedly erecting a tent to escape hordes of mosquitoes. Hunger. Thirst. Once, Bliss describes her joy when someone finds her hiking and offers her a bed for the night and an ice cream bar. I had to wonder: why not just NOT DO THE HIKE AND HAVE A BED AND ICE CREAM WHENEVER YOU WANT? Ah, but I know. I’m not a hiker and I don’t truly understand all this.
Whether you’re a hiker or not, this book takes you inside of what goes on during a hike. I had imagined that hikers start a trail and keep hiking until they’re done. Not necessarily so — Lauralee starts the trail, then later goes home for a while before returning to hike the rest. Other times, a friend picks her up and drives her 90 miles to her house so she can spend the night out of the elements, then returns her to the same spot the next day to continue. Hiking must be expensive: she describes flying home and back to the trail, having her husband ship new shoes and supplies for her to pick up at a post office along the trail, etc. Interesting look into what it’s like to hike a long trail.
October 1, 2022
I read tons of trail books because Will loves hiking and is an AT thru hiker, so I know something about this kind of book. I picked this one because I live in Florida and want to hike the Florida Trail, and wanted to find out how bad the bugs and sun and swamps really are. This book answered that question: bad, but not bad enough to not hike it. But this book would have been SO MUCH better if not for all the “god” in it. I cringed every time “god” intruded into my reading experience. Ok, it’s her book and she has the right to put “god” in it if she wants to (and honestly I passed on another Florida trail book by a different author because it sounded like too much “god” in that one too — where are the agnostic hiker writers?), but I’m warning other potential readers that if this stuff irritates you, you will be irritated. Aside from that, it’s a normal trail book, with the normal structure of “it was hard and I was hungry and the weather sucked often but I persevered and learned stuff about myself and the world.”
August 6, 2019
My Thoughts on Gators Guts and Glory:
I now want to go hike in Florida because I want to see for myself all the things that were visited. But also I don’t because of snakes and alligators. No thank you. I’m not so keen on those.
This book was well written. It was a quick read. Definitely different from my normal reading books. I love me some murder mystery type books and this is definitely as far from them as it can get. There is a bit of suspense though because you never know if maybe she’ll get bitten by a snake or chased by an alligator.
Ever thought of hiking? I love hiking but I don’t do it on a professional scale. We like to hike up and down our bluff and that’s about the most we ever do. This book makes me want to go find some trails around us to hike. See some new sights and visit some new places.
I think you’ll like this book. It’s one I’m going to recommend. Even if it’s not your normal type of book still give it a go. You might be surprised how much you like it.
While it doesn’t read like a fiction book the author does have a nice style of writing that keeps you engrossed. My mind was not wandering as it does with some non-fiction type books when I just can’t seem to engage. I was engaged with this book and definitely was introduced to some new places and spaces.
But though I love the thought of visiting these places I am just gonna look them up on my computer okay? Because I do have a knowledge of cottonmouths and I’d rather avoid them. We have them around here as well as rattlesnakes and copperheads and I really don’t want to visit somewhere else on a bit of vacation that also has poisonous snakes. No thanks. I’m just not a snake kinda person. Shudder. We have a mutual understanding of you leave me alone and I’ll leave you alone.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
I now want to go hike in Florida because I want to see for myself all the things that were visited. But also I don’t because of snakes and alligators. No thank you. I’m not so keen on those.
This book was well written. It was a quick read. Definitely different from my normal reading books. I love me some murder mystery type books and this is definitely as far from them as it can get. There is a bit of suspense though because you never know if maybe she’ll get bitten by a snake or chased by an alligator.
Ever thought of hiking? I love hiking but I don’t do it on a professional scale. We like to hike up and down our bluff and that’s about the most we ever do. This book makes me want to go find some trails around us to hike. See some new sights and visit some new places.
I think you’ll like this book. It’s one I’m going to recommend. Even if it’s not your normal type of book still give it a go. You might be surprised how much you like it.
While it doesn’t read like a fiction book the author does have a nice style of writing that keeps you engrossed. My mind was not wandering as it does with some non-fiction type books when I just can’t seem to engage. I was engaged with this book and definitely was introduced to some new places and spaces.
But though I love the thought of visiting these places I am just gonna look them up on my computer okay? Because I do have a knowledge of cottonmouths and I’d rather avoid them. We have them around here as well as rattlesnakes and copperheads and I really don’t want to visit somewhere else on a bit of vacation that also has poisonous snakes. No thanks. I’m just not a snake kinda person. Shudder. We have a mutual understanding of you leave me alone and I’ll leave you alone.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
August 6, 2019
"Gators, Guts, & Glory" by Lauralee “Blissful” Bliss was a interesting read. It is a journal,( at least that is what I call it).
"I'm walking the trials I know best-those that traverse mountain rangers, cross streams plying over moss-covered rocks, meander through hardwoods and spruce, and deliver stunning views and a great finish." She has hiked many times but she wrote this about the 1,100 mile Florida Trail from Big Cypress National Preserve to Gulf Islands National Seashore. But, she decides to hike it anyway and this book tells her journey.
While reading chapter 2, I was asking myself, why do hikers hike when there are dangers like thorns, tree stabbings , ankle injuries, food deprivations, dehydration, and getting lost? I was telling myself, this hobby is not for me. After finishing the book I am still saying "Not for Me."
The author says "It's not just about me walking a trail. It's a journey of faith and hope and pointing to the One who cares for all of us. He is our Provider in times of need, even in the darkness and the challenges and the good times. He is in the forefront of all we do. He is our all in all. And He will see me through to the end."
I read this book because of the book tour, but it isn't one that I would have checked out of the library on my own because I am not interested in hiking. After reading this book , I do have to say I have more respect and awe for hikers, and just more awareness for courageous individuals who do hike.
I was amazed at all the help the author received from strangers, in this day and age I would be afraid to accept rides and etc. from someone I just knew from online groups. I guess that is where the author trusted God.
I probably still won't check out a book like from the libray, but I have to say I am glad I was on this tour and got a chance to read this book and I'm not sorry for the time I spent reading it.
This book has pictures showing some of the scenes. I have both the print and the kindle copy and the kindle copy the pictures are in color.
I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.
"I'm walking the trials I know best-those that traverse mountain rangers, cross streams plying over moss-covered rocks, meander through hardwoods and spruce, and deliver stunning views and a great finish." She has hiked many times but she wrote this about the 1,100 mile Florida Trail from Big Cypress National Preserve to Gulf Islands National Seashore. But, she decides to hike it anyway and this book tells her journey.
While reading chapter 2, I was asking myself, why do hikers hike when there are dangers like thorns, tree stabbings , ankle injuries, food deprivations, dehydration, and getting lost? I was telling myself, this hobby is not for me. After finishing the book I am still saying "Not for Me."
The author says "It's not just about me walking a trail. It's a journey of faith and hope and pointing to the One who cares for all of us. He is our Provider in times of need, even in the darkness and the challenges and the good times. He is in the forefront of all we do. He is our all in all. And He will see me through to the end."
I read this book because of the book tour, but it isn't one that I would have checked out of the library on my own because I am not interested in hiking. After reading this book , I do have to say I have more respect and awe for hikers, and just more awareness for courageous individuals who do hike.
I was amazed at all the help the author received from strangers, in this day and age I would be afraid to accept rides and etc. from someone I just knew from online groups. I guess that is where the author trusted God.
I probably still won't check out a book like from the libray, but I have to say I am glad I was on this tour and got a chance to read this book and I'm not sorry for the time I spent reading it.
This book has pictures showing some of the scenes. I have both the print and the kindle copy and the kindle copy the pictures are in color.
I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.
July 29, 2019
“If I do come across a gator, who moves first? I pray whenever we do meet, the gator is not hungry.” Such are the very real thoughts of Lauralee Bliss, author of Gators, Guts, and Glory: Adventures Along the Florida Trail. Unlike most of the books I read, this is a true account of one woman’s traipsing across the wastelands, bogs, and even highways of Florida.
My first question was, this lady is doing this alone?! But no, she had the support of her husband, “Papa Bliss,”helping out behind scenes, preparing for necessities, and even accompanying “Blissful”on the first part of the Florida trail.
What I liked: pictures helped me better imagine the author and her trek through this dangerous terrain. I loved that the author described the different approaches and personalities of herself and her husband, who accompanied her for part of the journey. One was more about finishing the trail and adding the accomplishment to a belt; the other complained a lot, but enjoyed the wildlife and scenery more. I just found that contrast interesting!
I also was amazed by the amount of planning and preparation that had to go into a trek before it ever began... and how quickly plans had to be scrapped and flexibility had to be embraced. “I’m trying not to let frustration rob me of peace, which is easier said than done. I must embrace the hiker beatitude of Blessed are the flexible. I like to plan everything out to a tee,the first thing a hiker should do on day one is throw out the plan.”
Being a book person, I know next to nothing about blazing a trail through untamed territory or drinking strained swamp water. I learned a lot. Blissful also learned much, mostly about trusting God for provision, “Trail angels” and miracles.
If you like reading about real-life adventure in the wilds, this book is a good choice. I received this book from Celebrate Lit. This did not influence my opinions, and no positive review was required.
My first question was, this lady is doing this alone?! But no, she had the support of her husband, “Papa Bliss,”helping out behind scenes, preparing for necessities, and even accompanying “Blissful”on the first part of the Florida trail.
What I liked: pictures helped me better imagine the author and her trek through this dangerous terrain. I loved that the author described the different approaches and personalities of herself and her husband, who accompanied her for part of the journey. One was more about finishing the trail and adding the accomplishment to a belt; the other complained a lot, but enjoyed the wildlife and scenery more. I just found that contrast interesting!
I also was amazed by the amount of planning and preparation that had to go into a trek before it ever began... and how quickly plans had to be scrapped and flexibility had to be embraced. “I’m trying not to let frustration rob me of peace, which is easier said than done. I must embrace the hiker beatitude of Blessed are the flexible. I like to plan everything out to a tee,the first thing a hiker should do on day one is throw out the plan.”
Being a book person, I know next to nothing about blazing a trail through untamed territory or drinking strained swamp water. I learned a lot. Blissful also learned much, mostly about trusting God for provision, “Trail angels” and miracles.
If you like reading about real-life adventure in the wilds, this book is a good choice. I received this book from Celebrate Lit. This did not influence my opinions, and no positive review was required.
September 3, 2021
A truthful tale of one woman's journey on the Florida Trail. She shares all the trail joys and struggles she experienced hiking this national treasure.
December 20, 2019
Really enjoyed reading this book about thru hiking the Florida National Scenic Trail. Good read; I could almost imagine myself hiking the trail. It didn't hurt that I know a few of the people she met on the trail, Nd was doing some section hiking not too far from her. Nice photos as well. If you don't know the Florida National Scenic Trail, this is a good way to learn what it is like.
July 28, 2019
A long-time goal of mine was to hike the Appalachian Trail, but due to physical difficulties and handicaps that was a goal that had to be amended, edited, and changed to standing on the Appalachian Trail. I'm happy to say I achieved that goal and even hiked maybe a half a mile of it, which is nothing compared to what Lauralee Bliss did. I imagine her laughing at me, but hey, I achieved that goal. My goal was also to see the ocean for the first time which I also did on that trip. I also read a hiking book "Hiking Thru" and lived the experience vicariously through trail journals.
So when the opportunity came to review GATORS, GUTS, AND GLORY I didn't think too long about it. A trail in Florida I never heard of. Adventure. Life on the edge. Survivor stuff that takes a special kind of toughness that I don't possess. But oh, I love to dream. And I loved to experience the journey from the air-conditioned comforts of home. Because I would never survive a day/night out on the trail, nevermind weeks and weeks of it. Not I.
Lauralee Bliss writes a firsthand account of what, how, why, when, and what for that will have other armchair adventurers enthralled and might even help some real life adventurers to plan their own journey through mosquito alley, gator swamps and woods filled with poisonous trees (who knew). Add in quick sand (aka sucking mud) and cotton mouths, you will have the stuff nightmares are made of....or maybe dreams come true.
Seriously. I enjoyed this book. I recommend it to anyone who likes to dream big and live life on the edge ... through the pages of a book. And in real life. This book would be a stepping stone in planning your own adventure and she mentions other resources to study as well. Ms. Bliss has also written a book about hiking the Appalachian Trail which i have not read. Yet. Mountains, Madness, and Miracles.
Grab your copy of GATORS, GUTS, AND GLORY today.
I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
So when the opportunity came to review GATORS, GUTS, AND GLORY I didn't think too long about it. A trail in Florida I never heard of. Adventure. Life on the edge. Survivor stuff that takes a special kind of toughness that I don't possess. But oh, I love to dream. And I loved to experience the journey from the air-conditioned comforts of home. Because I would never survive a day/night out on the trail, nevermind weeks and weeks of it. Not I.
Lauralee Bliss writes a firsthand account of what, how, why, when, and what for that will have other armchair adventurers enthralled and might even help some real life adventurers to plan their own journey through mosquito alley, gator swamps and woods filled with poisonous trees (who knew). Add in quick sand (aka sucking mud) and cotton mouths, you will have the stuff nightmares are made of....or maybe dreams come true.
Seriously. I enjoyed this book. I recommend it to anyone who likes to dream big and live life on the edge ... through the pages of a book. And in real life. This book would be a stepping stone in planning your own adventure and she mentions other resources to study as well. Ms. Bliss has also written a book about hiking the Appalachian Trail which i have not read. Yet. Mountains, Madness, and Miracles.
Grab your copy of GATORS, GUTS, AND GLORY today.
I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
August 8, 2019
Bugs , backpacks and beautiful trails oh my. I am not a camper nor a hiker so this book intrigued me. Why would someone want to hike for days with weather that changes daily and lack of water becomes a reality?
The author has a lot of determination and a thirst for adventure in this book. It is chalked full of inviting trails which seem to go on forever. It surprised me that she was pretty calm when meeting strangers on her journey and I especially loved her endurance as she traveled to see God’s beauty.
The author really did her research before taking off and I thought how prepared she must have been. I’m pretty sure I would not last an hour on a trail. My idea of hiking is making a trip to the mailbox. Camping for me is in an RV with all the luxuries minus bugs, and bad weather.
I was shocked when she went home with one of the ladies she encountered on her hike. The offer of a soft bed and ice cream is tempting but I would never go with someone I didn’t know. I’m not as trusting as the author and it sounded like she had a great time visiting with the lady and her husband. They do seem to become friends and that encouraged me to have more faith in mankind . There always seemed to be a big issue with water. Staying hydrated is very important and I worried about our hiker throughout the book.
The different places the author visits on her journey were quite interesting . There are good people in this world and it was evident as the author gets help from strangers. I loved that she was able to witness and pray with people along her journey. The book was interesting but I’m still not convinced I want to go hiking.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
The author has a lot of determination and a thirst for adventure in this book. It is chalked full of inviting trails which seem to go on forever. It surprised me that she was pretty calm when meeting strangers on her journey and I especially loved her endurance as she traveled to see God’s beauty.
The author really did her research before taking off and I thought how prepared she must have been. I’m pretty sure I would not last an hour on a trail. My idea of hiking is making a trip to the mailbox. Camping for me is in an RV with all the luxuries minus bugs, and bad weather.
I was shocked when she went home with one of the ladies she encountered on her hike. The offer of a soft bed and ice cream is tempting but I would never go with someone I didn’t know. I’m not as trusting as the author and it sounded like she had a great time visiting with the lady and her husband. They do seem to become friends and that encouraged me to have more faith in mankind . There always seemed to be a big issue with water. Staying hydrated is very important and I worried about our hiker throughout the book.
The different places the author visits on her journey were quite interesting . There are good people in this world and it was evident as the author gets help from strangers. I loved that she was able to witness and pray with people along her journey. The book was interesting but I’m still not convinced I want to go hiking.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
August 5, 2019
Gators, Guts, and Glory is a book that captures the spirit I believe is an inherent part of hiking any part of the Appalachian Trail. While in college in Asheville, North Carolina, I was able to hike some pieces of the Appalachian Trail. Plus, I had a friend who desired to hike the entire length of the Trail from Maine to Florida. The idea intrigues me, but after reading this book I am not sure I have what it takes to do the whole trail. However, this book definitely makes me desire to do at least parts of the trail.
I think one of my favorite parts in the book is where she talks about the “Water Buffalos”. Because my husband’s MOS (meaning his job) is a “Water Dawg” – meaning he deals with everything from laying water lines to dealing with a Water Buffalo, I immediately recognized what she was talking about before she provided the explanation given to her.
The descriptions given made me feel as though I was actually with her. The only part I did not like was the mosquitoes since I swell up in ridiculous ways from their bites.
All in all, this is an excellent book about combining faith with adventure. I appreciated how others were willing to provide assistance, even when strangers – such as the Paisley twins. So if you are interested in hiking, faith, Florida, or adventure, check out this book for yourself.
I think one of my favorite parts in the book is where she talks about the “Water Buffalos”. Because my husband’s MOS (meaning his job) is a “Water Dawg” – meaning he deals with everything from laying water lines to dealing with a Water Buffalo, I immediately recognized what she was talking about before she provided the explanation given to her.
The descriptions given made me feel as though I was actually with her. The only part I did not like was the mosquitoes since I swell up in ridiculous ways from their bites.
All in all, this is an excellent book about combining faith with adventure. I appreciated how others were willing to provide assistance, even when strangers – such as the Paisley twins. So if you are interested in hiking, faith, Florida, or adventure, check out this book for yourself.
August 11, 2019
Whew! Let me catch my breath after reading this book! Lol I am so like the absolute non-hiker type, I really didn't know what to expect from Gator, Guts, & Glory. I was really pleasantly surprised! I felt our author's storytelling abilities in first person made the experience real and raw. I felt like I had accompanied our author on her hike by the time I finished the book! I enjoyed that it wasn't a super long read, and I enjoyed all the faith elements, and how the author learned more about God as a result of her hike. I was really scared for our author a lot of times too (I wanted to close my eyes until it was over lol), but I really enjoyed the journey even though in reality I am just not a hiker. I think I would like to know this adventurous, determined woman as a friend, because I felt like I knew her really well by the end of the book. I found faith, inspiration, and an exciting journey with a well-described backdrop, and this book honestly was just unexpected and fun. I recommend this book for the outdoors person, but also someone looking for an adventurous, inspiring story!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions given are entirely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions given are entirely my own.
August 1, 2019
This newly released book follows the actual adventures of the author as she hikes the Florida Trail. I didn’t even know there was such a trail. Reading about her experiences gives a realistic glimpse into the delights and struggles of backpacking through the area day after day. Vicariously is the best way for me to do so. She is quite honest about her feelings and situations, with some humorous moments included. I admire her dedication and endurance—it could make readers want to try such a hike. The book also includes photographs from her journey and insights into her relationship with her Creator. I enjoyed reading about the various places she traversed and the sights she described, but especially about the wonderful people who aided her along the way. So many generous people shared food, a place to stay, and more. This book helped me better understand why some people would push themselves to continue through hardships to complete such a challenging trek. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.
August 1, 2019
I enjoyed Bliss's account of trudging through Florida. What an adventure. As a day hiker, I could identify with some of her experiences, such as maps not representing what is seen in front of you, getting painful blisters, being confronted with surprising weather, and meeting some scary people on the way. I liked her descriptions of the landscape as I have never been in the Florida wilds.
I appreciated learning how long distance hikers complete treks of hundreds of miles. I realize now the importance of community, such as being part of a hiker group and using social media. I found out how hikers restock their supplies along the way and get interludes of rest. I was surprised to find out about burning sugar cane fields before harvesting.
This is a good book for those who love hiking and readers who like armchair adventures. Bliss's writing style is a pleasure to read and kept my interest through the more than one thousand miles of trail.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
I appreciated learning how long distance hikers complete treks of hundreds of miles. I realize now the importance of community, such as being part of a hiker group and using social media. I found out how hikers restock their supplies along the way and get interludes of rest. I was surprised to find out about burning sugar cane fields before harvesting.
This is a good book for those who love hiking and readers who like armchair adventures. Bliss's writing style is a pleasure to read and kept my interest through the more than one thousand miles of trail.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
August 5, 2019
I chose to read this book, because I will NEVER go on a trek like she did. I found the description intriguing. I enjoyed reading this book. It was a easy read. I had NO idea what goes into planning a hike. All of my hikes have been wake up, hike. I would NEVER survive what she did. I enjoyed following along in the spiritual and actual trek over 1000 miles. I like her detailed descriptions and humor that is inserted throughout this book. I chuckled a lot - especially the beginning where they were running behind, maps were not matching up - and she says: "If I meet a gator, I pray they are not hungry." I thought that it was pretty cool she would have mail drops that would contain food, clothing, etc. I enjoyed reading this book.
I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit Blogging program all thoughts are my own.
I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit Blogging program all thoughts are my own.
September 5, 2019
Okay, disclaimer. I am most definitely not a hiker! However, I was tugged into Lauralee Bliss's tale of hiking along the Florida trail. This book came into my life during a very busy season when I only had limited amounts of time to read recreationally. I wasn't sure a book about hiking would hold my interest, but I found myself eagerly looking forward to traveling alongside Lauralee every morning. I was amazed, startled, uplifted and sympathetically exhausted as she plugged pluckily onward through this incredible adventure. I also loved the way she enfolded her faith into this tale, so naturally and easily. This was one of those rare books where I found myself dreading the ending because I was enjoying the journey so much!
Did this book make me want to hike the Florida trail myself? Um. No. But did it make me want to read more of Lauralee Bliss's books? You better believe it!
Did this book make me want to hike the Florida trail myself? Um. No. But did it make me want to read more of Lauralee Bliss's books? You better believe it!
August 9, 2019
Gators, Guts and Glory
Adventures along the Florida Trail. I didn’t know that people even did this. At first her husband was with her but he has to go back to work. I love the relationship they had. The author has quite an adventure. Besides hiking the trails she got to meet a lot of people. I loved when she stayed on a farm. Helped take care of the animals.
She had a goal and was determined to achieve it. I really admired the strength she had. I loved reading about her adventures.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit. This review is my own opinion.
Adventures along the Florida Trail. I didn’t know that people even did this. At first her husband was with her but he has to go back to work. I love the relationship they had. The author has quite an adventure. Besides hiking the trails she got to meet a lot of people. I loved when she stayed on a farm. Helped take care of the animals.
She had a goal and was determined to achieve it. I really admired the strength she had. I loved reading about her adventures.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit. This review is my own opinion.
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