Sunday Hike

This morning Emery and I headed off to one of our favorite local hiking spots. The sun was shinning and the sky bright blue. The morning temperature was pleasant but there was a bit more humidity in the air than what either of us likes for hiking UP trails.
We were shocked to see how much the drought had impacted the lake and the woods. Everything was crispy dry. With the burn ban, one cannot even have a campfire in a pit or metal ring. The lake was so low it seemed you could have walked across it.
By noontime we were hot and ready to quit. The temperature had climbed steadily throughout the morning.
We sat for some time at the waters edge, watching the wind move the water. Fish would jump in every area but where we happened to be watching. A hummingbird flew about our heads and great Egrets soared across the still water in search of a meal.
Cat o nine tails were pale lacking in their usual contrast to the dry grass that support them.
We saw very few people on the trails. It was just too hot and dry for most folks.
Emery and I both got new hiking shoes last night. Low ones, cooler than our boots. We both found our favorite brands right off and as experienced hikers we know what works for us and what doesn't. Mine were on sale !

Looking down at the very dry and empty spill way
Cat o nine tails, splitting down the middle
The lake, water level the lowest we have ever seen it