Today was unusually warm. I woke up and could smell the trees. It smelled like Spring. The outdoors called to me. Anticipation.

A short drive to a state park delivered me to hills of endless trees. There were several trails to choose from. Each, an entry way into the forest. Happiness.

There were others on the trail. We exchanged smiles and well-wishes with hikers who also felt the pull of the forest paths. Commenting on the favorable weather, we nodded and walked on. Contentment.

The trees looked stark and white against the blue sky. Waiting sentinels, resting until Spring. The rock ledges and caves peeked out of the hillside, visible for a time while the flora remained dormant. Serenity.

Mud bubbled up in areas where snow melt and rain created gullies in the hillside. Leaves piled in the gullies, left by the winter winds. We carefully plotted our steps to avoid the mire. Perseverance.

Birds sang. Squirrels scurried. The animal kingdom also appreciated the reprieve from deep winter. I, in turn, appreciated their presence. Footprints and fly overs. Peacefulness.

There were also large, barking dogs running free. They made me nervous as they ran toward us. Their owners came by with leashes hanging from their hands and smiled. I thought to myself that leashes really only work if they are used. Grumpiness, but only for a moment.

Sunlight wandered through the trees. Light played on the hillside. I grew warm in my jacket as we climbed the hill toward the car. I savored an orange and washed it down with cool water. Satisfaction.