The air is full of such invigorating energy. It hasn’t yet filled with the negative vibrations from stressed, angered, and frustrated others. Birds of all feathers are busy foraging to keep themselves alive and some to ready themselves for their long journey across the ocean. Come. Come along on a couple of my morning dog walks.

the drought is wreaking havoc, though we have hope

The leaves have begun to yellow and fall. Some have prematurely died — from the drought. I named the beautiful rufous coloured leaves of the Arbutus, “After Life” as they’re a sign the drought appears to be winning. Along the trails at the fish hatchery, signs of salmon returning remind me that the cycle of life endures and persists. Heidi (my dog) takes it all in, in her own way, through her keen sense of smell and the grounding energy from the earth through her bare pads.

The forest is ours to explore and experience. The earlier we arrive, the more we have it to ourselves. Occasionally, we will encounter another forest wanderer either alone or with their dog(s). A cordial greeting and we continue on. It’s a sacred time and no one wishes to have their moments of wonder interrupted — the spell broken.

I’ll see a ray of light beaming on a fern or leaves and stop to capture it — or simply to admire. I imagine all manner of things, like how the fallen tree clothed in verdant moss appears to be reaching for the light or pointing the way so we don’t forget what gives this forest its life. The further we slip into the forest it appears to swallow us up with its protective virescence.

Dappled shadows, shimmering light, and hazy pillars of light put on their morning show announcing the beginning of another beautiful day. The birds seem more joyful here. The dog and I are invigorated. It sets the tone for our day.

Backlit leaves standing out in a dark forest. Photo taken by Diane M Schuller.

Forests are like churches, hallowed places. There’s a stillness about them, a sort of reverence.

Sabrina Elkins

The magic doesn’t end there. Let me tell you about the joys of walking the dog at the end of a beautiful day, when the sun lies low and sheds its golden hue over the land. Come along. See for yourself.

The sacred place of silent minds and deep souls is the depths of the forest.

Mehmet Murat ldan


If you enjoyed this why not share it with a friend or post about it on social media. Thank you for reading and sharing your time with me. — Diane

2 thoughts on “daily dog walks, come along”

  1. It’s like a walk through an enchanting forest! I love your use of backlighting that illuminates the foliage. And that pathway is so inviting.

Comments are closed.