After gathering at the Pumphouse Theatreparking lot, we fifteen walkers were immersed in the crackling, fluttering brown leaves of late fall - both the ones that had fallen onto the grass and those futilely clinging to the trees. Under a full sun, the river reflected vigorous blue, presenting a classic panorama of sky and water. The dappled light over the pathway let us forget the snowy cold of the past two weeks.
Our leader, Nancy, surprised us by moving away from the pathway, leading across 14 Street to watch kids swooping up and around in the skateboard park. Innumerable times I have driven past the skatepark, but at 60 kmh, only tiny glimpses were possible. On foot, we had fun admiring the twists and tricks executed by people with bodies so much younger than ours. Lifting our eyes, we saw the glorious Mewata Armory in full view, without the traffic obscuring the street side. All around, tall punched towards the high white puffy clouds.
Reaching Princes Island, we marvelled at a swan stirring up underwater mud to reach munchy tidbits, by a muskrat and several coots which took advantage of the buffet. Later as we strolled along the wide path beside
the Bow River, Linda saw a small beaver posing professionally on a rock. We threaded through and families enjoying this natural treed oasis in the centre of the city. At the bridge, we turned back towards our filled with the scents of wet leaves, crisp fresh air, and gentle satisfaction.
