All things big and small…birds!
Being present mentally is perhaps the best benefit to trail life. I feel like every time I am out in the mountains, some of the smallest things propel me into thinking about deeper subjects like my place on earth and how important every living thing is in the big picture. From Gray Jays that try to steal your grub to Bald Eagles that float along the cliff sides and scour the meadows for a bite to eat, all of them trying to survive in the only way they know how. Here are some examples of birds that have given me some insight, a little love or a smile.
On my last day going around Mt. Adams this year, this little Mt. Bluebird flew with me for a 1/4 mile or so singing and flying from branch to branch. After spending a quiet night off trail, it seemed to know that I needed a bit of company. Thanks little guy!
Most times when I see these Grouse on the trail they fly away post haste, but this gal was hanging out for a bit to show off. Not every bird is the same, don’t judge a book by it’s cover.
On my last night of a grueling 107 mi. Olympic trip. As I simmered down to eat my dinner, this guy circled the lake and landed at the exact time I sat down. He was looking for a bite to eat too, when I was finished, he took off. Weird!