A quiet morning wandering on the trail
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The picture does not capture how happy I was to be there
11/19/2020
This morning I carved out some time to get on the trail.
This week, I had big plans to spend two nights sleeping in my car in Anza Borrego to summit 8 peaks in 3 days. I was excited for the plan to be out in the wilderness, excited for some alone time, and excited for some quiet after the really busy few weeks (and months).
Stuff came up. My plans were scrapped.
What’s been happening lately is that I prepare some quiet time on the trail and something often comes along and puts a wrench into those plans. Owning a restaurant can do that.
It sounds like I am complaining, but I always feel fortunate for what I am able to do.
This morning, I walked into a canyon near my home for a hike. I had no distance or time goal. I just wanted to walk around in the outdoors. I wandered. I explored.
I was able to breathe in the fresh air and listen to the creek flowing through the rocks and reeds.
I was able to startle a great blue heron, which took off into the sky as I approached the creek through a small use trail through the willows. I was able to startle two different coveys of quail as I quietly made my way down the trail.
As I sat on a rock near the creek, I was able to watch one of the largest red-tailed hawks I’ve ever seen soar over the canyon, occasionally calling out with its recognizable call.
I was able to use an app on my phone to take pictures and identify many plants and trees in the canyon.
I was able to enjoy the warmth of the sun while the autumn breeze cooled me.
I was completely absorbed in the place and enjoyed every second. I highly recommend it.
This is a healthy endeavor.
