A change in routine took me and my friend Sara (sorry Baxter) through the forest and out to Elk Head today. A really nice RT walk just under 4.5 miles. Switching things up for a change of scenery and because rumor had it that the elusive Fetid Adders Tongue had been spotted. The reported sighting of this very cool native plant turned out to be premature (we suspected such but hey, these are strange times). Not a plant in sight, not yet anyways.

Having my hands free of the dog leash and the pulling that accompanies it was a nice break. I love taking Baxter on walks but it can be work. Plus today I had human company and great conversation. It also turned out to be a blessing because a big surprise lay in store for us at the end of the trail.

Like in the Children’s playground game, Duck, Duck, Goose where a tap on the head means your it, my walking partner and I were almost tagged, literally. To our surprise as we stood talking, leaning against the rail in the wind, an actual Canada Goose came barreling in like it was doing the tagging. I had just put my phone in my pocket, when I looked up to see a wobbly Canada Goose, flying feet first toward my head. The wind had picked up to 24 mph and I guess the bird got tired. Kind of a wild ride I’d say.

Sara and I just stood at the rail, our jaws dropped, watching this beautiful bird land on the ground near us. After she collected herself (we decided the bird was a she) she plopped down and appeared to take a rest. I took a few still images which I’m sharing in this post.

Both of us continued to marvel at this extraordinary experience during the walk back. I’m calling it a New Years Blessing. Cheers to 2022! May we all get a soft landing. Enjoy my pics! #iluvtowalk #elkhead #trinidadcalifornia #canadageese #humboldtcounty #humboldt