So we decided to set off early once again, before the heat of the day set in on this rash of super-heated summer days. At street level the sun blazed down with no impediments whatever, clear sailing in an ocean of blue. Humidity was already high, and the temperature was that of a furnace at a bit of a distance, but not by much.

Dipping into the ravine, ascending the pathway into the forest as the shade of the forest canopy covered us, relief was immediate aided by a nice brisk little wind. We could only hope that the wind would carry on through the forest trails. Sometimes it does, more often not. In any event any wind helps to ensure that flies and mosquitoes don't get too familiar with our flesh.

We weren't yet close to the creek but there were a few Damselflies flitting about nearby. We usually see them around the water, so this was a bit different, and I took the opportunity to capture one on camera. Like dragonflies these small creatures are quite beautiful with iridescent bodies and graceful, airy swoops through the air. I appreciated being able to see one up close enough to distinguish details.

We could see, as we passed countless thimbleberry bushes, that this will turn out a bumper year for those delicious berries, many still beginning to bloom and others already forming their fruit. Which makes it seem odd that production is so sparse this summer for the hazelnuts. Queen Anne's lace, early like everything else this year, is beginning to open its lovely white embroidery.

We came across a pudgy, good-natured little cocker spaniel with a woman we've seen on occasion in years past, and for a brief period while we spoke, our two and the other little dog became acquainted though the spaniel was older and perhaps that's why he was indulgent with the bad manners of Jackie and Jillie and their incorrigible habit of greeting other dogs by barking furiously, then calming down when the sniffing formalities are done with.

Setting out early morning instead of mid-afternoon into the forest is like doing our usual route backwards and that's primarily because the sun is at a different height, angle and strength. You do note the difference, and it's interesting. But then, everything tends to be interesting ambling through forest trails on any day.

So did we beat the heat yesterday? Nope. As it happens, early morning turned out to be more humid and hotter than the afternoon, so go figure; an anomaly, given our usual experience.