My Actifit Report Card: December 29 2024 - The Grey Morning Walk: A Return to Writing and a Tribute to Care

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meraki75781.2 K25 days agoActifit3 min read

A month. It has been that long since my last post.
And to be honest, I'm fighting to get back into it.

Life frequently takes unexpected turns, and my usual source of inspiration and encouragement is currently giving his time and attention to his father, who is coping with major health issues.

Witnessing his unrelenting care and affection for his father has greatly impacted me, reigniting my need to express myself via writing.
I feel that writing, even in tiny ways, may provide solace and strength, and I wish to include that into my work.

So let me take you on my morning walk.

For several days, the sun has been gone; today is not an exception.
Low on the sky, a dense, dark cover of clouds conceals all of the sunlight.
I refuse to let the depressing weather lower my mood. Though it is freezing, I love the fresh, energizing air.

I began my walk dressed warmly in a hat, scarf, gloves, and a big winter coat.

Even the often frisky "Konik" horses at the nature reserve appear humbled by the cold, seeking each other out for warmth.

The reserve is gated off, but a wildlife grid allows bicycles and hikers to enter while preventing horses and Galloway cattle from escaping.

This grid is vital for the reserve's integrity, but it must be navigated carefully.

Improper foot placement or an awkward bike crossing can quickly lead to an accident.

As I leave the reserve, I cross a busy highway.
I go closer to the village's outskirts as I continue.

To reduce highway noise, sound barriers have been built along the village boundary, which has made a significant effect.

Still, I'm glad I live away from such a crowded road for the air pollution as well as for the noise.

My left leg hurts, so I decide to stop briefly on a bench.
My tracking app reveals that I've traveled 2.5 kilometers so far.

The silence of the stroll is wonderful.
There isn't a single soul in sight across the enormous area. This isolation offers an exceptional opportunity to appreciate nature and its inhabitants.

Earlier, I saw elegant "Konik" horses, powerful Galloway cattle, and a variety of birds, including mallards and swans.
While these may not be among the "Big Five" of wildlife encounters, as the adage goes, "He who does not honor the small does not deserve the big."