I’m often stopped by strangers when I’m out on a run who ask, ” Can you tell me how to get to … ” and I must have acquired a new level of confidence when responding as people seem inclined to accept my instructions without displaying the hesitation I’ve witnessed in the past.
The man in the photograph below was walking on lane in the opposite direction as I passed him yesterday and wished to find the Camel Trail. He had parked nearby, but had somehow gotten off track and needed a bit of help to find his way back. As I was going in the same direction, I led him to the trail and then slowed to a walk to allow him to get far enough ahead so I might feel a bit more alone on the path. He was the first person I had run into on a stunningly perfect weather day and I was surprised not to encounter more folks along the way.
Even though it was hardly crowded with only the man above and his dogs, I still wanted a bit more nature and no people if possible so I could be totally alone my thoughts. I was doing some big daydreaming yesterday as I mentioned here and I didn’t want to have to stay alert to the passing bell sounds of cyclists approaching from behind or to have to break concentration to give a customary greeting or head nod to others on the trail. On days like these when I need more room, it helps to know which direction to go or at least have a sense of adventure about discovering the less traveled places.
Now that’s more like it …
… just me, the trees, and the river.
Gifts Of The Journey 
That’s a beautiful area, but I’m thinking about bugs.
What a way to sidetrack your peaceful post.
I guess, I’m Tired of scratching, and it’s only June.
Diane -You’re not going to believe this, but we don’t have itchy noseeums here. I swear! Sure we have bees and spiders and stuff, but mosquitoes … I’ve not seen one or felt a nibble at all. Scotland has midges, but they’ve never bothered me when I’ve been there and just so you don’t think I’m immune to bugs, I am never safe without insect spray in Georgia.
Perhaps I should consider a move to the great British Isles !?!
Ah, solitude. I think I just relaxed a little just looking at these pictures. Everyone needs a little place of peace and quiet they can turn to now and then!
I know that feeling of just wanting to be alone..to hear nothing but your own breath..and to simply dream. Looks like a beautiful place to run!!!
You’ve caught the dappled light perfectly, adn I know that’s ot easy.
We do have a few noseeums in the UK – or rather I have become more sensitive to them, having developped what looks like an allergy to them in recent years. (When I go on a hike in USA, I’m doused in some pretty noxious bug repellant.) But folks, there is NO poison ivy!
beautiful!!!
where the heck is that?