It was an encouraging start to the day, when I wakened to sunshine peeking in the window.
After some breakfast, I decided I had better not waste this day. They could be few and far between for the next few weeks as winter is still only one Pacific storm away.
I have been back out walking again after a couple of years off, and the daily walk soon becomes addictive. It doesn’t take long to shed a pound or two and bring the blood pressure down a couple of points, but those are only some of the benefits of getting out there. The quiet of the forest can be a great catalyst for decision making. Often, as you stride along the nature trail, you find yourself thinking, “Yes, that’s the answer I was looking for.”
I decided to head to Crescent Beach and clean my senses with some salt air. So much for a quiet walk.
Everyone else in the Lower Mainland had had the same great idea. The tide was very far out and almost every tree had a eagle perched on a branch keeping an eye out for crabs or whatever unfortunate creature became stranded on the sand. I was surprised at how many people took no interest in watching them, even when they flew off in a dive.
I love to look at the houses along the beach and fantasize about which one my Lotto winnings will purchase. I am always amazed that no one ever seems to be home at any of them, and I wonder if this because we’re all there.
If I owned one, I think I’d be there as often as I could. There are words on the waves and phrases on the breeze, all just waiting to be gathered and written down.
But you have to walk out there and get them. At least that’s what McGregor says.
Intruder
There in the window he stood with his coffee
His housecoat, his slippers, his glare;
I was just out for a stroll on the beach,
Not really meaning to stare.
Envious I guess, of his proximity here
While I live 30 minutes away;
He probably takes for granted each morning
This incredible start to his day.
If I had his house, I would be on that deck
Each time the sun set and rose;
In the summer in shorts and light cotton shirts,
In December my toasty warm clothes.
I’d know all the herons and eagles by name
When they arrived home every spring;
I’d wait for the tree stripping winds in the fall
And the fabulous storms that they bring.
Yes, every morning with coffee in hand
I would rejoice at the new forming day;
And yes, I guess, if I have to be honest,
I’d glare at those who got in my way!
