Today I escaped the blowing wind by first getting a quick cut and style, then talking Mr. Grinch into going for a drive. After a scenic drive on FM 474, we took off to the James Kiehl River Bend Park. I took walking stick in hand, and headed off down the trail that takes one to the river. But instead going right to the river this time, I headed along the wider trail running above the river. I walked along that trail for a few moments, then simply had to stop and stare for second at the ever so inviting trail that lay before me. I snapped a picture of that inviting trail, debated for another moment, decided Mr. Grinch had food and drink in the truck, and took that irresistibly inviting trail.
After treading lightly upon that trail for several moments, I came to a spot on the river bank that was easy to walk down to. It offered the perfect place to perch my butt, and simply enjoy the moment. As I sat watching the still swollen Guadalupe flow by, listening to the birds chirping all around me, I had a moment of utter soul soothing tranquility as I took in the beauty all around me.
The recent rains have brought blessed relief from the terrible drought we endured last summer. Lush, is one good word to describe the flora all around me at that moment. And the trees, I know in my heart and soul they are somehow singing with happiness as they continue soaking up this much needed moisture, and unfurling bright shiny new leaves.
The fauna of course is busy eating the heck out of all that lush vegetation. Or trying not to be eaten by something tempted by their now plump goodness. Taking inviting trails like the one that seduced me down it today, reminds me in a very profound way that despite all the beauty, it's still a matter of survival of the fittest. Being reminded of that did not disturb my tranquil moment. Why should it? That is the way of nature. Just as it is the nature of nearly any beast to sometimes take a moment and smell the roses so to speak.
And yes, many animals do that in their own way. Cases in point, a horse, dog, or cat happily rolling in the grass, then laying on its side and soaking up the sunshine. I may never know what animals truly think at moments like that. But I do know as I sat on the river bank today, I fully understand the joy in life they are expressing.
To see the two new photos I took on today's hike Click Here then choose Hiking
