Lory and I went walk about, we wanted to do some more exploring of the little island down the road from our house.
We walked along the water's edge this time, then zig zagged in and out of the little indigenous garden and headed to unknown territory through a little copse of scrub.
When we emerged, we found ourselves on the edge of a vast salt marsh. Lory had a run around and loved splish~splashing in the little puddles as kiddos do. I'm quite happy for her to get wet, sandy or muddy when we are out on these walks, it's part of the experience.
I thought I was going a bit bonkers at one point because as I walked, stuff kept happening in my peripheral vision. Then I realized I was in the middle of crab county. There were little crab holes everywhere in the sand and any movement would suddenly send crabs scurrying to their bolt holes. Lory found these immensely entertaining and we were able to sneak up on a few to snap some pics.
This Grey Heron was looking all majestic perched at the top of this tree. I really wouldn't have minded having my DSLR with me on this walk. Next time for sure!
On the other side of the embankment was the start of the beach and a really stunning view as the sun started to set. By this point we had already walked about 1,5kms. I was impressed that Lory was still going strong but the cautious mom in me wanted to get off the beach before there was no ambient lighting left.
We headed round the island head and then found the road which would lead back to the car. Lory started getting tired so I piggybacked her most of the way back. There were some bats flitting around us as the sun had already set. Lory exasperatedly told me "Mom I don't like bats that much anymore" - "why not Lores?" "They mess up my hair" was her response. She makes me laugh. I really do enjoy her silly sense of humour.
This is the furthest that Lory and I have walked together in the evening and I think she did really well although the pace is obviously slower than I would normally go on my own, it's pretty pleasant to just walk and get some fresh air with this breathtaking scenery.
Until our next meander.
Ranger Andy
All photographs are my own - Knysna, South Africa 2022
