Bunny gave her version of our New Year’s hike yesterday. It was the perfect start to our year. We definitely enjoyed ourselves, even though it was colder than a witch’s heart out there.
It’s been a while since we got to do some real hiking, and I was really glad to get back on the trails. Since we all had such a good time, I’m hoping that we’ll be able to do some more hiking in the near future. The hike was our kickoff for the 30/30 Challenge, and I was encouraged by using that little Fitbit gadget. Actually, Mr. Taleteller was so impressed that he went and got one for himself. So far, he and Morgan have been joining us on our evening walks since then.
One of the things that fascinates me when we hike at Starved Rock in the winter is how a place can be transformed into a sort of fairy wonderland. A waterfall that’s a trickle of water in the summer becomes a castle of ice or a frozen jellyfish in the winter. Falling water sounds like music echoing in the canyon. Rocks become majestic thrones. Everywhere you look, you expect to see a fairy or a unicorn appear. The forest blankets you and there are no sounds of civilization to be heard besides the company you keep.
For me, the magic of the place is one of the big draws. During the month of December, we often feel so disconnected. However, when we get out there on New Year’s, those bonds prove that they’ve always been there, waiting for us to find them again. Bunny walks along with me like she’s an extension of who I am. Even if we didn’t have the leash, we would still be connected by an invisible thread, or perhaps one that’s pink and sparkly. I see Morgan relax and enjoy herself more, too, along with my husband.
Maybe the magic of the place is just getting away from all the other distractions in life for a little while. It doesn’t really matter to me if there’s a true enchantment there or not. It’s magical for us and I’m glad we went out and braved the cold for the experience together.
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More lovely photos.
You should right a book hun and put your lovely photos inside.
Those ice formations are amazing!
Oh wow! love that last shot. Is it a closeup of the icicles?
Beautiful photos and words as well.
Blessings,
Goose
Those are the most beautiful jellyfish!
I just tried to do a little catching up on your blog. Sounds like you all had a wonderful Christmas, hope you left lots of treats for Santa since he was so good to everyone
Carrie, you already have some amazing pictures and I can’t wait to see what you do with your new studio! Happy New Year!
Walking with the pups is something I don’t do enough of. This sounds like such a lovely day for everyone concerned. You’ll have to tell us about your newest gadget. I particularly love the picture of Bunny sitting.
Hi Bunny, I’ve been playing a little catch up here. Gee! Those pictures of the falls are spectacular! I’ve been to Starved Rock myself long ago…I”m thinking maybe I’d better go back! I must add that in the picture of Morgan standing on the rock–he looks like Rin-Tin-Tin searching for his steadfast companion that little soldier boy, Rusty! LOL Happy Saturday!
Both of these posts about your hike inspire me to get my hibernating self out there this winter. I need all the inspiration I can get! What a beautiful place that is. I will have to try to find something similar in my own area! Winter really is so beautiful, but I can never seem to remember that until I get myself out there. Thanks for the help!
Those icicles are beautiful!
What a magical place. I can see why you love to go there!
I believe in fairies.
I might just get me one of those fitbits, they do seem rather useful! I’m glad you had a great start to your year.
Wow, those are some epic icicles!
I like the idea of you and Bunny with your invisible pink sparkly thread
“Maybe the magic of the place is just getting away from all the other distractions in life for a little while. ”
That is a big part of why I like to get out and walk in wild places!
I miss my lovely James, our first greyhound, with whom I had the kind of connection that you and Bunny have. We walked everywhere off lead, except near traffic. I could probably have trusted him, but it didn’t seem right to do so, after all, he was a greyhound, and you never know when that pesky squirrel might pop up in front of you!
Beautiful pictures. Love the ice!!
that last photo is BEYOND cool!
Neat photos!! the winter can really be inspiring.
That’s a wonderful winter hike…I love the photo of the frozen waterfall
Happy New Year! Love this last bunch of photos, but your photos are always great.
See you on the Idita-Walk trail!!
Wyatt and Stanzie
How beautiful! This is the kind of thing I like to do on New Years day myself, although I had to miss this year. Bunny has on a very interesting coat–have you posted about what brand it is?
It does look like such a lovely spot. It never gets cold enough to be called a “Winter Wonderland” here. Mostly this time of year it’s just a ‘Muddy Mess”. There really is nothing like getting out in nature with your pups to set your heart and soul at ease.
One of our favorite posts of the day. Your photos are striking and your words keep us entertained. You should write a book, you really have a way of bringing your experiences to life…..
bert and my vickie
Wow! Wonderful photos. And we love Bunny’s coat! I’ve just posted a brief word on my blog about the heatwaves our friends in Australia are suffering right now. Strange to go from photos of bush fires to ones of snow and ice.
Big WOOFS from Solo
Nothing better than a walk in the woods
Beautiful!
Wow those are fab photos. Bunnie looks like a model and the ice….Just gorgeous! Happy New Year to you.
Smooches from pooches,
BabyRocketDog and Hootie
Magical and beautiful for certain! Thank you for sharing your special time at your special place
Waggin at ya,
Roo