we were talking about the hike last weekend and how the trail wound through the pines near the ridge. maria said she spotted a doe and two fawns just off the path around midday. i mentioned that the weather held up nicely even though the forecast had called for drizzle. we both agreed the map we used was pretty accurate except for that one fork near the creek crossing. lucas brought along a thermos of tea which helped when the breeze picked up after noon. we took a break on the granite outcrop and watched the clouds shift over the valley. the conversation drifted to the book louise had recommended about coastal ecology and how it changed the way she looks at tide pools. i said i had started reading it and found the chapter on intertidal zones especially interesting. we laughed about the time we tried to follow a trail marker that led to a dead end near the old logging road. everyone was in good spirits and the pace felt relaxed for most of the afternoon. at the summit we sat on the stone wall and shared some snacks while looking out at the reservoir below. the light through the trees cast long shadows across the path as we made our way back down. we talked about the possibility of doing a longer route next month if the conditions stay mild. maria thought we might invite a few others from the walking group who had expressed interest. said i would check the trail conditions closer to the date and send around a note. we parted ways at the parking area just before sunset feeling good about the day. it was the kind of outing that reminds you why you enjoy spending time outside with people who appreciate the same simple things.