I’ve missed trail walking this summer. It keeps me grounded; it keeps me sane. But heat and humidity have scrambled my schedule. Many days I hoof it right after waking up, when there’s still a trace of nighttime coolness in the air. This means I stroll through the neighborhood. (Driving to walk seems strange enough midday or later; at 7 a.m. it’s too ridiculous to contemplate.)

Or is it?

Yesterday’s immersion was so pleasant that it made me want to walk there every day. I’m not alone. There’s parking along the road, and my car usually has company.

It was late afternoon by the time I escaped yesterday, and the air was full of moisture and cicada song. Which is basically how it is right now. And so … I’m off to walk the trail.