Friday, Remi and I hiked part of the Fred Meijer bike trail west from Pingree Rd in the tiny village of Elwell, four miles west of Alma. The mid-morning weather was partly sunny with a temperature of 21 degrees and a noticeable wind from the southwest. Starting out, I could see that the trail was mostly covered with virgin snow except for a single set of human tracks made earlier this morning. There was little evidence of bird life except for a couple of male Cardinals flying among the trees far ahead. The white path before me was straight, bordered by leafless, green-less vegetation and extended as far as the eye could see. Walking slowly, with the dog close behind, I gazed to the north and was pleased to view a rare, blue sky. Occasionally, I spotted deer, mouse and squirrel tracks on the trail. Once in awhile, the trail left the shelter of the trees where I could feel the brisk, cold wind against my face. In this nearly colorless landscape, it was easy to spot red berries and apples. Looking at my surroundings, I decided that today, I would enjoy the natural solitude and scenery without trying to determine the identity of plants and trees. Reaching the next crossroad at 1 mile, I turned around and retraced my steps where I noticed off to my right, a beautiful pattern of drifting snow that had formed on the north bank. On the trail below, the sight of Remi’s tracks reminded me of all the places he has left these tracks while hiking with me over the years. Continuing east, the sun finally broke through to reveal a variety of tree shadows on the snow. Finally, we arrived back in Elwell at the car and headed for home.
An hour of hiking
Through nature’s domain
Wandering and wondering
In snowy terrain
An hour to focus
On life in the wild
Eyes wide open
Like a curious child
An hour to admire
All that surrounds me
To respect and revere
Whatever I see
D. DeGraaf
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