I stepped onto the now-open seasonal trail with a smile, feeling light-hearted. A dense bank of fog is clinging to the ground in low places, even now, well past sunrise, and after my walk is over. It was quite lovely, a bit chilly, and interrupted by pauses to look at wildflowers – and sneezes. The air is filled with scents of Spring.

Another sunrise

I slept rather poorly and woke earlier than necessary, but what a lovely day for an early morning walk along the seasonal marsh trail! The trees are green again, and the meadow flowers are blooming. Beautiful!

Oaks on the hillside, fog bank beyond.

By the time I got back to the car, the trailhead parking lot was full. It’s a work day, but clearly not for everyone. It’ll be quite rare to have the trail to myself until sometime in autumn, most likely. I consider that only briefly. It doesn’t really matter, generally. It’s one of those peculiar luxuries I have little control over, and I am content to appreciate it when I do get to experience that beautiful solitude. I yawn, watching the sunlight change angles as it passes through a clump of meadow flowers. I’ve got an errand to run, then it’s home to enjoy the day with my Traveling Partner.

It is enough to enjoy the moment as it is.

I glance at the clock. It’s time to begin again.