
A short scenic drive had seen us end up in Arlington, Vermont. We weren’t far from home so although it was nearly lunchtime, we crossed over the Batten Kill River to follow the previously unexplored road on other side.
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This was something we had talked of doing often but somehow never gotten around to.
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This being a road used very much only by local residents, stopping was no problem.
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Which made it possible for me to get out and walk, summoning the driver to catch up periodically with a tilt of my chin.
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While I cannot walk far or fast, I can certainly manage this.
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A trio of mallards paddling in the river did not protest being photographed.
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Walking in the woods here you risk exposing yourself to ticks, but with this road to follow it was perfectly safe.
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Bird calls, a gentle breeze in the trees and the trickling river were the only sounds.
Balm for the soul.
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A perfect way to spend a delightfully mild Fall morning.
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Crows found something to peck at on rocks exposed by the drought.
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What an idyllic location for a home.
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It’s hard to say how far I might have walked if we’d not run out of road.
At home my walks are shortened by the existence of slopes which are a serious challenge to a fused spine and aged legs.
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Now that we know the lay of the land, perhaps next time we come this way I’ll start my walk after crossing the bridge.
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Oh no, a traffic jam. The black car had to move to let us pass, so the conversation was interrupted, but we all smiled and waved politely.
It’s a sign of the times that one now tends to be surprised by such gestures!
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At then end of the road near where we had to cross back over the river, a farm.
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Where pumpkins grew.
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Wednesday’s predicted rain did not arrive until late afternoon and when it came, it was hardly a downpour but it was the precursor of more significant precipitation.
For which we are most grateful.
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Thank you, Carolyn, for the post that is the wonderful proof that surrounding oneself with nature is good for our well-being. Also, thank you for the beautiful photos of the forest pathways!
Joanna
What a delightful scenic drive, and a short walk included. Lovely and autumnal.
Best wishes, Pete.
Autumn is well and truly here! Lovely pictures.
It must be nice to be able to walk through this beautiful area (with the peace of mind that a car isn’t too far if you get tired). The mallards are beautiful, and I agree with Peter, your autumn has definitely arrived.
These pictures are gorgeous. I need to visit Arlington, Virginia. It looks so peaceful.