A Clear, Spring Night

My husband usually takes our Alaskan Malamute, Meeko, for his nightly "before bed" walk. Because he's under the weather today, Meeko and I headed out about 10:30. As I walked to the corner, I noticed a quarter moon shining brightly in the sky, which was dark and clear. Stars twinkled over the park across from our house. I marveled at this, as its not often you can see a blanket of stars sprinkled across the sky, looking like fairy dust. Light pollution usually blocks this wondrous sight.

Meeko and I walked up the street a few houses and then crossed to the park. An owl hooted in the trees along the creek, but I couldn't spot it. A cat slunk through the grass. I wondered what unsuspecting rodent was being pursued. Would it end up as the cat's dinner, or would it make its escape in the underbrush nearby?

Other than the owl and the cat, we didn't see or hear another soul or creature. A soft, cool breeze drifted across the park, bringing with it the fragrance of blooming hyacinth. I breathed deeply, drinking in the wine of those blossoms.

Meeko and I continued on our way. We walked along the creek and listened to the water gurgling and bubbling its way to the lake that's on the edge of town. It was music to my ears in the clear, spring night.

We rounded the corner not far from our house and made our way back toward home. It was a beautiful night for a walk and I was glad that I'd been allowed the opportunity to see the beauty of the night sky and enjoy the cool breeze.