Trail Hiking

Exploring the beauty of a nature trail.

Writing today was going to be futile.

I had filled my backpack with my journal, a notebook, pens of every colour and my computer. I'd even tossed in a blank notebook and pencils to sketch.

Looking out the bus window as we made our way out of Paris to Fontainebleau Forest I found myself mesmerized by the beauty around me.
Even my interest in William, who sat only a few seats away from me, had ebbed. I could still hear him chatting with Jerry, but the buzz of his presence had been absorbed into the scenes that were flickering by.

Paris amazed me. The architecture rising up and standing the test of time. Even the newer builds were often renovations of what was already there.

By the time the bus pulled in to the parking lot and I gathered my gear I was vibrating with a need to be outside. I hadn't realized how much I missed trail hikes. I'd been in Paris only a few weeks and I loved it, but I missed the wide open spaces and trails from my native land - Canada.

Being surrounded by buildings and settings steeped in history was wonderful, but this... this was necessary for my peace of mind. I had not realized how much I needed it until I drew in a deep breath and felt my body relax. The aroma of cedar and pine wafted around me and I itched to get going.

"Bronwyn, you look like you're ready to burst," a familiar deep voice said.

I hummed with deep satisfaction and William chuckled.

"I could spend the whole day here," I mused as I took in the views around me. Trees towered up into the clear blue sky. Ferns waved in welcome. Rocks and bounders jutted out here and there. Each offering a spot to sit and take everything in.

"Today is only half a day, but maybe another time. We could come back..."

"I would love that," I murmured.

"I have a feeling you're not going to do much writing," he said, then chuckled when I let out another sound of genuine satisfaction. "Don't get lost."

"I will, but not in the way that will have others worry. One can't get lost when you feel you've come home."

Out of the corner of my eye I could see him nod.

I walked slowly over the terrain. Absorbing the place into my pores like osmosis.

William stayed close by and I appreciated his need to keep out a watchful eye. His company was comforting.

"I have a favourite spot. It just up there. Would you like to see?"

I smiled my agreement and he moved slightly ahead of me. As we climbed, he reached back to make sure I was not slipping over the odd shaped rock formations that jutted out of the path before us.

When we came to the top crest of rocks overlooking the valley below my breath caught.

"You can see for miles." I said in whispered awe.

"It's a good place to write.... or dream... or share a meal." William said, his voice a quiet rumble.

"It's perfect."

We sat on the warm rocks like meditation gurus as we sipped at our water and nibbled our food.


Word Count = 542