walking back in time

February 18, 2008 at 7:08 AM

I went for a walk today. It was along a route I used to go quite frequently when I was younger. I remember how I used to stop and pause, my family's dog nudging at my side and just admire the view. The world seemed endless with the lakes and the mountains and blue sky, spotted with clouds. Today was one of those brilliant, clear blue days that are characteristic of life in the Okanagan in the summer, not so characteristic of winter. But today it was blue and and crisp and gorgeous outside and I was reminded of my walks with my dog from way back when. I was a lot more carefree and fearless back then. I remember encountering a rattlesnake on one of my walks, thinking, from a distance, that it appeared to just be a piece of rope but upon further inspection and a frantic movement and sound, it was apparent it was not just a harmless piece of rope. Continuing on the walk I was reminded of a favorite winter past-time of sledding down our neighbors driveway and bank. The driveway was not very fast or fun to sled down but was safer. The bank, which was more often the focus of our fun and amusement, ended in trees which were more often than not what brought our ride down the hill to a quick stop. Strange how pain seems to mean nothing when you're having a good time. I can't say that I'd still willingly careen myself down a hill on a crazy carpet towards trees and bushes now that I'm older and paranoid about my hands and arms and limbs in general.

I love the smell of winter and the crispness in the air at this time of year back home in the Okanagan. It's refreshing and envigorating! There are so many things I don't miss about home but it's little things that seem insignificant that mean the most to me when I come back and visit. The smell of the air, the scenery, mom-made food (somehow it always tastes better when someone else does the cooking!), a bigger bed to sleep in, my bright blue and yellow lava lamp.......

From Pauline Lerner
Posted on February 18, 2008 at 9:35 AM

I'm glad you have such good memories of home. They should be part of your inner strength (or amusement) when you're away from them.

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walking back in time

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