If I hadn’t walked this afternoon, I would have missed a gorgeous blue sky.
If I hadn’t walked this afternoon, I would have missed the swans that live here year round. I haven’t seen them since the fall.
If I hadn’t walked this afternoon, I would have missed seeing the Assabet River kayak launches that remind me kayak season is just around the corner.
If I hadn’t walked this afternoon, I would have missed two middle grade boys horsing around in the park, reminding me to find joy after school, too.
If I hadn’t walked this afternoon, I would have missed seeing this walking stick left by a stranger. A lovely reminder of how thoughtful people can be.
If I hadn’t walked this afternoon, I would have missed the ruins that serve as a reminder to remain curious and to wonder about the past, present, and future.
If I hadn’t walked this afternoon, I would have missed this favorite reminder of how lucky we are to live in a “winged” town.
If I hadn’t walked this afternoon, I would have missed the lovely sunset warming up a chilly late March afternoon
So much to be missed if I hadn’t walked this afternoon, but thankfully I did.
********************************************************
This post is part of the annual month-long Slice of Life writing challenge organized by Two Writing Teachers. Join us! It’s my third year of slicing in the challenge and I’m looking forward to writing and learning along with all of you.
Wondering and Wandering 
This is gorgeous. As a slice, or as a pirm, or as a picture book. I will walk this afternoon. Thank you. xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
What started out as a bit of exercise and fresh air turned into a gratitude walk.
LikeLike
I love how you frequently weave your writing with your photography. This is beautiful and motivating.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Daven. I love how slicing in March shifts your lens on life and the world around you. Our stories are everywhere.
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is brilliant! First, you took a walk and stayed in the moment. You were there, seeing, thinking, feeling. And capturing those moments. I’m so impressed and energized with thoughts of how to bring your wonderful idea into my classroom! (Not to mention trying it myself.) Thank you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Suzanne. I often walk with the intent of searching for good photo opps. Yesterday I had actually tucked my phone away, so I could be present with the afternoon. Moments kept revealing themselves to me and I couldn’t help but capture them.
LikeLike
Your poem reminds me of what can happen when we get out in the world! As an introvert, not leaving the house is often my preference, but think of all that is to be missed out on! Thanks for this. You live in such a lovely place.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s funny because it wasn’t meant to be a poem, but ended drifting in that direction. Thanks!
LikeLike
Great post. The pictures add another layer of meaning. I may have to try this sometime.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love your love for nature! It is obvious in your posts. The area in which you live appears to be so beautiful. I can only imagine what it is like during the summer months when everything is green!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for sharing. I loved the pictures. Looks like a beautiful walk!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Beautiful form and images. Thanks for taking us with you on your walk.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love this! I appreciate how with each picture you pointed out something you saw and how you were grateful for it. Stopping to small the roses! Something I need to practice more!
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a calming, appreciative piece! I often have those thankful thoughts when walking around. There is such joy out there – in the living and non living sights – getting out allows us to see and begin to understand we are connected to something bigger! Thanks for sharing, Christie!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I loved the repetition of “If I hadn’t walked this afternoon.” An earlier comment mentioned a picture book and I could absolutely see this slice in a PB format. The language, the photos…I want to share this with kids! If you hadn’t walked this afternoon, we would have missed out on the beauty of your slice!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I feel blessed to live in a “winged town” too…though until I read your post today, I had no idea that it was! Love your combination of photos and words to bring us along. The repetition of words matches the repetition of steps as we walked along with you. Thanks for this.
LikeLiked by 1 person
If I hadn’t stopped by your blog this afternoon, I would have missed this lovely walk with you…I’m glad I did! 🙂
LikeLike
Something tells me that a few of us will be walking this afternoon and paying attention. Love the pics you included with this slice.
LikeLiked by 1 person