We've been talking about, and looking at some of our old maps and mountain guides for trails that won't present too much of a physical/endurance challenge to us in our upcoming trip. There are all the old familiar trails we've visited over the years, some of which we can still manage, others that will remain a memory. The anticipation of returning to our old haunts is growing, and we're looking forward to the trip. There's so much we've got to prepare for, not the least of which is ensuring that Jackie and Jillie will be comfortable.

 

 

For them as well as for us a suite of coverings, from blankets to raincoats to towels (for them, not for us) and of course their food and their treats. They'll no doubt recognize both where we've made reservations and most of the trails we'll be taking them on. We can anticipate that it will be as much a challenge and pleasure for them as it will be for us. And that challenge of course includes the long drive to arrive at our destination.

 

 

We've checked the 10-day forecast and it looks as though we won't be encountering any awkward weather patterns. Lots of warm days and sun, and a few days of rain, all of which is fairly normal. And we'll be seeing our old friends from whom we rent the various cottages we've stayed at over the years. 

 

For now, our hiking remains with what we're truly most familiar with, right here at home. And today's fine weather sent us out with Jackie and Jillie to take advantage of it. As usual when they see me doing my brief exercises prior to changing into my hiking clothing they become excited, racing back and forth after one another, leaping here and there, scattering area rugs and practising for their romp in the forest.

 

 

While they're active enough out on the forest trails, they rarely break out in a frenetic series of calisthenics such as we see at home. Partly it's because the many intriguing smells captivate their noses inviting them off trail to investigate where those irresistible fragrances -- that if we were able to smell them would likely be anything but attractive -- are coming from. 

 

Down by the forest creek the wildflowers too are enjoying the weather, basking in the sun, the soil in which their roots are fixed, nicely moist from the expansive rainfalls of yesterday. It's kind of odd that the singular plant that affects so many people, the common ragweed, is the very plant that exudes the most delightful fragrance. Wildflowers like evening primrose, with its beautiful name and lovely blossoms and the Black-eyed Susans and Himalayan orchids seem to give off no perfume at all that we can detect, though they make up for that lack with their colour and beauty.

 

Back home again, to peruse the gardens, and assess what's different and what needs attention. It's a little landscape we're well familiar with and never tire of observing. It's hard to believe, actually, that our efforts over the years, have created this garden with a whole lot of help from nature who sent along her elements to help shape all the trees and shrubs and coddle the perennials that keep returning year after year following the harsh winters that put everything to sleep underground.