The Pear Tree

Waking up early enough in the morning to go walking is a struggle for me. I’m not pointing any fingers, but I have been having a difficult time waking up before 7 a.m. for the last four years. Conversely, my son, age four, and his two-year-old sister, who only started sleeping through the night in the last six months, take great pleasure in waking up at 5 a.m. (or earlier) to get a jump start on things.

But this morning, for the second time this month (!) I awoke invigorated enough after an entire night’s sleep, to get my walking shoes on and head out the door before breakfast.

It was a beautiful morning, and I was so glad I hauled my camera along to snap these pictures.

I’m not a morning person at the best of times, but when I do get out first thing I’m always glad I did (unless I’m grumpy about being deprived of my precious sleep). The air, the environment, the world around me always feels so fresh, so light, so full of anticipation. If only morning came later in the day, we could all partake of this amazing communion and be the better for it.

My favourite morning walking spot is in Ben Lee Park, just off Leathead Road in Rutland. I have a long history (minus a four-year gap) of early morning walks and jogs along its serpentine loop.

There were few people I recognized this morning, but every summer I love seeing the “regulars.” I start to feel, after a while, like we have a bond – even though I almost never learn their names.

I also enjoy connecting with the park itself, watching it change from day to day, as the seasons come and go and come and go.

Today I ran into some Russian Sage, a veritable bouquet of yellow flowers (anyone know that they’re called?) and a baby pine cone. I think I’ll bring my camera with me more often – it helps me notice things.

Do you walk? Where’s your favourite walking spot?

- Words and photos by Lori-Anne Poirier

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