THE DUST WILL WAIT

My Husband accompanied me on the creek walk two days ago.   He stopped and shouted to me, "Hon, grab your camera!" Although my eyes didn't find it, there was a fish swimming dangerously close to the heron that was motionless on the berm. BAM!  The heron jumped into the water and caught the fish before I could even focus.  But, I did capture some lovely shots that followed.  Well, lovely for the heron.  Not so much for the fish.

 Construction and completion of a new fish ladder has discouraged my walks on the creek this summer and fall.  So I was surprised when my car turned in that direction yesterday when I thought I was headed to the other walking path nearby.  The parking lot was nearly empty and there was a sign that said closed.  However, the park ranger who happened to be standing on the sidewalk called out that it was indeed open.  I happily crossed the bridge. This time of year gives me some apprehension for walking alone.  Several years ago this season was when I encountered the beautiful Bobcat that pretty much seemed indifferent to my presence.  This is the time of year when cougar sightings are common as well.  Quite a few years past I saw a bear after hearing it rushing away through the underbrush. Only a few years ago  I came across a person rising from his sleeping bag partially hidden in the bushes.  I had the advantage of already being in boots and full stride so was out of sight in seconds.