Winter Walk

       This is the Tionesta River, a popular fishing and float stream near Warren, although it becomes too shallow and rocky in summer to be much good for either except in some deeper pools. I walked the old railroad grade alongside it yesterday, and passed these icicles formed from water flowing off the steep hillside to the left. It had been about four years since I'd been at this specific spot, and that time lapse made me think of the last time Chelsea and I had been here-which is often the case when returning to old walks; they rekindle fond memories of  how she would rush ahead and sniff for chipmunks and, if it was summer, take a quick swim to cool off. Dogs are remarkable animals who become part of the family and whose short lifespans remind us to cherish each moment for the blessing it is.