After a week or so of being cooped up, nature’s call felt irresistible. The time had come to get outside, even if my steps were slower and my stride cautious as I continued healing from surgery. Equipped with my camera and the excitement that only a nature adventure brings, I made my way carefully to Goldstream Park, intent on witnessing the salmon run.
The salmon's journey is nothing short of inspiring and Goldstream Park is alive with the journey of salmon migration. Each fall, these remarkable fish return to their birthplace, tirelessly pushing against currents to reach their spawning grounds. Standing by the fish ladder station, I felt a deep sense of awe watching them pause, almost strategizing before launching themselves forward with sheer determination. You can’t help but want to help them along, yet all we can do is protect their paths—keeping streams clean and free of debris so they can navigate safely. Witnessing their resilience and perseverance firsthand was humbling, a powerful reminder of the natural cycles that connect us all.
Check out this video of salmon navigating their way up a fish ladder—a breathtaking display of resilience! Watching them was incredible; each fish seemed to pause, almost strategizing its next move, and then, with a burst of energy, would go for it with all its might. The sheer determination in every leap left me in awe of their journey. I hope this video captures just a fraction of that spirit and the powerful connection these creatures have to their home waters.
As I walked through the park, I spotted a lone bird perched high atop a barren tree. I carefully raised my camera, feeling the weight after surgery, determined to capture what I thought was a small hawk surveying its domain. After a few shaky snaps, I zoomed in and chuckled—my "hawk" was actually a pigeon, sitting proudly on its branch, facing away, seemingly lost in thought. A solitary pigeon in the middle of a park not known for them; what were the chances? It was a funny, humbling reminder that nature often has its own surprises.
The rain held off, and sunlight broke through as I walked, spotlighting the forest floor and revealing a vibrant carpet of mushrooms in all shapes and sizes. I couldn’t bend or squat for photos just yet, but I managed to capture a few shots of these forest dwellers that never cease to amaze me. Why do mushrooms pop up exactly where they do? Their patterns and colors made me stop and marvel, adding a quiet sense of wonder to my walk.
Two baby slugs caught my eye as they maneuvered over some moss, one even pausing on a mushroom as if posing. It’s these small details—the way even the smallest creatures are absorbed in their world—that make nature feel so complete and restorative.
As I walked through Goldstream Park, I found myself drawn to the trees, each one blanketed in vibrant, wet green moss that seemed to glow under the soft sunlight. Taking a moment to admire them, I felt as if I were in an enchanted forest, where the moss wasn't just covering the trees but breathing life into them. The colors, so rich and saturated from the rain, reminded me how deeply connected everything is here, with each layer of moss and bark playing a part in this lush, thriving ecosystem. It was a peaceful, grounding moment, a reminder of the beauty that patiently awaits our attention.
On my way back, I caught a fleeting glimpse of a bald eagle and a kingfisher, their flight powerful yet swift as they vanished into the dense trees by the river before I could even raise my camera. I stood still, taking in the moment and the quiet majesty they carried. My awe-struck expression must have been something to see, as fellow walkers chuckled, sparking smiles and a few shared stories of wildlife encounters. As I continued, I noticed leaves scattered across the ground, freshly fallen after a wind and rainstorm. Each one was vibrant with autumn’s colors—the reds, oranges, and yellows glowing against the damp earth. It felt as if the storm had unveiled autumn’s full palette, leaving a stunning reminder of the season’s beauty along my path.
Being outside, surrounded by life and movement, reminded me how much nature can soothe the soul. Although I’ll need to pace myself for a while yet, I look forward to finding new ways to slow down, sit, and savor each natural moment as I heal. Who knows what discoveries await on this journey? Nature is patient, and today it left me feeling refreshed and grateful for the invitation to return.
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