On Wednesday's run, I took a flat route by the Erie Canal to give my legs a break from the hills. The paths are a combination of gravel and paved, parallel with the water.
I started out before the rain hoping I would beat it when a bicyclist approached me making conversation, "Do you think we will beat the rain?"
"Maybe we will get a few drops", I replied.
I then looked to my right a huge snapping turtle sitting along the side of the bank! The biker was just ahead, he saw it too. I let out "Wow, look at that snapping turtle!"
He looked back at me on his bike and slowed down a bit, "oh yes, they come up to the bank every year and lay their eggs, I've seen the babies before".
"That is awesome, maybe I will get a chance to see them too". "Have a great bike ride" I called.
"How far are you running today?", he called back.
"Seven miles" I raised my voice a bit so he could hear me as he continued to pedal.
"Great! Have fun" and off he went.
I was still in awe from spotting the snapping turtle. I was so glad I got the chance to see it this morning. The raindrops started to hit my arms as I crossed over the bridge to get on the main trail.
The rain felt nice and the smell is my favorite. I always loved running in the rain. The thought must have been heard by the clouds as it then began to pour for the next 15 minutes of my run.
I was splashing in the puddles on the gravel path and weaving around the geese's droppings as I went. I looked up to see a family of them to my right. The baby goslings with their parents all huddled together pecking at the ground. They were adorable and this excitement grew inside of me. It's hard to explain other than I love seeing birds, and wildlife as I run—it's so special.
I ran past them doing my best to keep my distance as the mom and dad geese eye me ready to hiss. They are so protective of their young and I’ve learned that on my many runs. I looked down at my watch just as the rain let up a bit— already time to turn around.
As I headed back, a dozen bicyclists passed me as we said good morning and hello. I was glad to see so many people out moving on this rainy morning acknowledging each other.
I crossed over the bridge and kept my eye out for the snapping turtle again—maybe it's still on the bank—they do move slow right? I kept my eyes on the lookout but didn’t see that turtle again—maybe next time.
What delight will you see today? Share with me in the comments below.
Poem of the Day:
HELLO
Run to play—delight
Reward on feet, can’t be beat
Nature my playground
Others are here too
Real connection on the trail
Hello my friends
We have a little pond in our neighborhood. Last year a friend who lives across from the pond had a giant snapping turtle come up on her front porch! I’m sure it was looking for a dry spot to lay eggs but it definitely freaked her out!