Chapter 1: Embracing the Present

As I embarked on the trail at the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Nature Preserve in Washington, my mind was cluttered with thoughts of work and daily responsibilities. I yearned for a moment to escape into the beauty of nature, yet I found myself fixated on the weathered planks beneath my feet.

A woman nearby waved and directed my attention to the marsh. "Look!" she exclaimed. I turned, curious about what could be so captivating. Was it a deer, an eagle, or perhaps something more exotic?

"Check out those gorgeous ducks!" she said, beaming with excitement. Initially unimpressed, I paused to observe them. She was right; they were indeed stunning. I had never seen ducks like these before, with striking black and white plumage. Unlike the typical mallards that paddle with their heads submerged, these Bufflehead ducks dived gracefully underwater, leaving me in awe.

Thanks to that woman's friendly gesture, I realized how much I had been missing while lost in thought. Perhaps I was becoming a birdwatcher after all.

As I continued along the bridge, I shifted my focus from my thoughts to the beauty surrounding me. The reflection of azure skies and fluffy white clouds danced upon the tranquil pond's surface, a welcome sight after days of rain. What else might I be overlooking?

Next, my attention was drawn to the vibrant moss growing in the grooves of the wooden handrail. Its beauty took me by surprise. I recalled reading that moss was one of the first plants on Earth, evolving from sea algae, with over 10,000 species. My fingertip grazed its soft, rootless texture, reminiscent of velvet.

With a newfound appreciation for my surroundings, I continued across the marsh bridge and arrived at an artificial delta, a creative initiative that transformed the area into a thriving wildlife habitat.

Along the way, informative signs outlined the local bird species, and I found myself hoping to catch a glimpse of a yellow-rumped warbler. I passed by fellow visitors armed with high-end cameras, feeling a bit out of place with my simple phone camera.

Suddenly, I spotted a peregrine falcon perched on a dead tree stump, cleverly camouflaged against its surroundings. As I attempted to capture its image, an older lady approached, intrigued by my focus. I pointed out the falcon, but she soon spotted something else.

"Look! An eagle!" she exclaimed, pointing to a majestic bald eagle perched high atop a nearby tree branch. I was captivated; it was a rare sight to behold.

I lingered, hoping for a chance to photograph the falcon or the eagle in flight, but they remained still. Time was slipping away, and I remembered the park would close at sunset. I quickened my pace, realizing I had a long way to go.

The second bridge, a highlight of the trail, extended across the sound. With low tide revealing only shallow puddles beneath, I felt a rush of excitement as another falcon swooped in my direction, startling me before it veered away.

As I approached the second bridge, an older woman with curly gray hair greeted me with a warm smile, saying, "Happy Imbolc!"

I blinked, puzzled by the term. Sensing my confusion, she explained that Imbolc marks the halfway point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox.

"Today we are sliding into spring," she added, her voice melodic.

What a lovely thought, I mused, as I continued on my path, feeling a lightness in my step, as if I too were soaring like the birds around me.

Most visitors were already heading back from the second bridge, but I felt a surge of determination. I picked up my pace, not wanting to be the last one on the bridge when park rangers began to close it. Yet, the vibrant colors around me beckoned me to pause for photographs—the bronze mud, the contrasting pine trees against the blue sky, and the ominous clouds gathering above.

As the darkness deepened, not just from the setting sun but from an impending storm, I realized I had forgotten my raincoat. I decided to turn back, having ventured far enough. The clouds loomed ominously, and I was still two miles from my car.

I spotted a great blue heron standing resolutely by a fallen tree, seemingly unbothered by the storm approaching. It stared defiantly at the darkening sky, offering a lesson in resilience.

The wind picked up, striking my face as the rain began to pour sideways. I felt exposed in this enchanted land, and it was time to retreat.

I reached the delta, half drenched, and faced a fork in the path: I could return the way I came or venture into the unknown trail. The rain had eased, so I chose the latter.

The marsh forest appeared transformed under the stormy skies, reminiscent of Dorothy’s journey into the haunted forest. I allowed my imagination to run wild, seeing faces in the tree trunks and hands in the branches, listening for the sounds of cackling or howling.

Then, as if on cue, a branch fell nearby, sending a thrill of unease through me. Yet, I couldn't help but smile; I was having the time of my life. My work-related worries melted away, and I felt like a child, playing and creating fantastical tales in my mind.

Through the dark trees, the welcoming glow of the visitor center came into view. As I neared the end of the bridge, I spotted a bird perched on a branch—a bright American Robin.

Once settled in my warm car, I reflected on my adventure. When I set out, I was burdened by adult responsibilities. Yet, through the journey, I had rekindled the spirit of the imaginative child within, feeling more grounded than ever.

This piece was inspired by the Globetrotter's monthly challenge centered on bridges. I encourage you to explore the incredible submissions by Erie Astin and Carol Labuzzetta, MS Natural Resources, MS Nursing.

A heartfelt thanks to the dedicated editors at Globetrotters, including Jillian Amatt - Artistic Voyages, Adrienne Beaumont, JoAnn Ryan, Anne Bonfert, and Michele Maize, for their unwavering support and professionalism. Please consider following Globetrotters and checking out their fantastic articles.

Chapter 2: Unforgettable Encounters

During my adventure, I encountered moments that truly captivated me.

The first video, "Stand By Me: Bridge and Other Adventures in the Unexpectedly Fascinating Town of Burney, CA," beautifully captures the essence of unexpected discoveries in nature.

As I continued to explore, I found myself enchanted by the delicate beauty of the natural world.

The second video, "Bridge Pass | Magical Delicacy Part 2," highlights the magical experiences that await those who venture into the wild.