As I drove along the winding road, I saw two young deer eating grass. Yes, right out in the open! Another mile of driving, a family of geese navigated the road to see when and where to cross. As I parked to meet my new friend, Joyce, for our hike, I saw a huge, slim, white bird fly overhead. The wildlife here is different from in the desert.
We started our hike along a paved path that paralleled a highway. Soon enough, there were no car sounds, just our feet and breath. The path continued, straight through very tall, green, full trees that reached up to the cloudy sky. I heard rustling and Joyce said, “It’s a chipmunk!” That’s a first — my NDB for the day! We encountered no other life until we reached a turn in the path, where the waterfall was rushing….and the mosquitos’ party was in full swing!
The flowers along the way were pink, white, purple and yellow*. The grasses were high and the trees higher. The path continued on for miles; so we planned to go further next time.
Chatting and walking is both relaxing and stimulating, inspiring and educational. There are lessons in nature and people. My heart and soul are full. I have song in my heart, a spring in my step, fire in my belly, and a smile on my face.
*If anyone can identify the flowers, please do in the comments section. Thank you.
Aloha,
Denise
