Mornings when my dog and I go for walks in nature, we both are more relaxed and happy. I like people; however, sometimes I need to be alone in the outdoors. Taking a break from village walking brings me closer to God and Mother Earth.

If the sun is out, we always pause while I raise my right arm to give thanks and praise for the day and this beautiful place. Silent and spoken prayers are shared.

Together my dog and I take some old and new trails on each hike. I enjoy seeing the seasons change the landscape and waters. Depending on where and when we hike, we may see wildlife tracks and droppings. It is fun guessing what animals have also passed through. Occasionally, turtles may be sunbathing on a mossy log in the water. Frogs jump off the sides of shorelines into the ponds, as my dog goes to sniff them out. We sometimes spot small, stocked fish like trout, swimming near the piers.

Canadian geese and ducks swim away for us as we approach. Blue herons fly off of the marshy areas. Other birds give warning and sounds of joy. They do not seem to be bothered by our presence. We enjoy their company and move on until returning another day.