Childhood Memories

I am very blessed that most of my childhood memories are at least good, if not glorious.  There may be events that were less pleasant, but I am grateful that they have faded. In my present day life I am reminded of those special memories.  Today was one of those days.

My Hubby and I decided to take our four footed boys for a walk through a portion of the Trans Canada Trail along North Simcoe Rail Trail.  It was wonderful.  Not only did we enjoy it, the pooches has a great time too.  

The atmosphere brought me back to family camping trips to Kettles Lake Provincial Park. The smells, the sounds, and the sights all brought me back to the little girl who was in charge of picking up sticks for kindling.  We would cross the quiet park roads to Island Lake and frolic in the cool clear water.  On one occasion a cute surfeit of skunks passed along the beach.  Of course we curious young children followed eagerly to pet the new furry friends.  Many parents,  as calmly as possible so as not scare Mama Skunk, called their wee ones back, hoping to avoid an odiferous nightmare.   I remembered how my Mom would sit my brothers and me down and with hot soapy water clean the days adventures and accompanying dirt off before tucking us into sleeping bags.  Dad was always up early the next morning, making "coffee" on the fire.  This was the only time my older brother was allowed to drink coffee as a child.  I am sure it created a strong bond between the two of them.  

Along our walk today, the aroma of pine and birch wafted to my nose and returned me to those worry free days.  Flying fauna soared from one tree to the other calling to their feathered brethren.  The rainbow of flora, including the Fall Golden Rod and the Earth toned leaves, rustled in the cool September breeze.  Those leaves that had fallen free from the towering trees crisped and crunched under our feet.  All the while our canine companions trotted, sniffed and left notes for whatever wild life may later come by.  

It is hard to believe but I resisted the suggestion of this walk.  I thought I was too tired, or I had other things to do.  It turns out this was exactly what I needed to do and I feel more energized for having taken the stroll.  Perhaps it important to resist the part of you that wants to stay in one place and to embrace the part that will take to the happy places of today and yesterday.