Sunday afternoon at the springs

Attempts to do chores today were thwarted by a return of plumbing issues so we gladly gathered up our gear for a long walk. We packed water and dog treats and a camera (with a low battery unfortunately - so no pics from me. TDW took a few) and boonie hats. And we timed our arrival perfectly. TDW pulled up right behind us.

We have missed our walks with the pack - seems like it has been forever since we were at the springs.

The park was full of walkers and cyclists, but everyone was "dog friendly." [This crowd of dogs is "people friendly" and TDW takes it rather personally when people do not respond positively towards them.] Hugo raced a few bicycles and Paddy seemed to be the social butterfly visiting with wading children and hikers. She only jumped up once and was quickly called down (and calmed down). Everyone else just wandered around and politely yielded right-of-way to the wheeled ones and runners.

We headed into the prairie hoping we would stay out of the way for a while. It is interesting, this attempt to regrow prairie grass after years of reckless land use. We were told by the brother of a friend that the area was used for dirt bikes and off-road vehicles and was once just dirt - flat areas of dirt and slight mounds of dirt. Now the grasses and wildflowers are back, providing habitat for birds and rodents, insects and arachnids, snakes and deer, and coyotes and other predators.  We only cut through the meadow during the cool weather when snakes are sleeping (hopefully).  And we did so today as the dogs followed deer scent up towards the rock outcroppings and down to the river.

We turned a corner on the trail and discovered a co-worker walking with a youngster. It was the kindergartner's first trip to the springs and he was full of excitement, reaching into his pocket to share with us the wonderful rock he found. Later, at the bridge we ran into another co-worker, there with her brother and nephews. It is unusual to see people we know in this park. But this was a weekend of seeing friends in unexpected places.

Skipping the cliff areas, the dogs led us down to the river and back to the cars. TDW took a few photos of DH and me. I am sure we are a sight in our floppy hats and sweaty dog-walking gear. Still it is who we are.

In our hasty loading-up we forgot our trash bags. We saw plenty of trash, but not as much as on previous trips. I picked up one palm-sized shard of glass, pointed on each end, but it was only one piece of glass. I feel as if I did not do my part.

The dogs could barely climb in the car after this "wild rumpus." Or perhaps they were not ready to leave their friends. Whatever the case they are napping now and likely dreaming of rabbits not chased and deer hiding in the deep grass.