I had a close encounter today. The hike began like all the others; making sure that I had all the items I required. Today that was my camera and bug spray just in case my new mosquito netting didn't work.

I didn't think I would get used to looking through the netting but it was not that bad; better than being mosquito bait. The netting is elasticized to fit over my ball cap. It comes down low enough to be tucked into the neckline of my shirt. The mosquitoes didn't have a chance today. 

When I leave the parking lot, I'm always looking at what is different from the previous visit. Today the clover was blooming and the bees and butterflies were plentiful. There were lots of other wildflowers in bloom; liatris, fleabane, bedstraw and blue eyed grass. The raspberries and strawberries are bearing fruit; providing a tasty snack on the trail.

I went with the intention of checking up on the swan family. I couldn't see them at the first viewpoint overlooking the pond. My sight was focused on the pond and not on the trail. My intention was to make it to the top of the hill; to my favorite bench. As I came round the bend and within 15 feet of the bench, I noticed some motion that distracted my pond watch.
Right in front of me, just 15 feet away stood a little spotted fawn. It stared at me. I stared at it. As I moved to get my camera, it bolted into the tall grass. Mama was in there. Both took off into the trees.

I sure wish I could have gotten a photo of that new babe. I did get a photo of the swan babes. They are getting bigger but still follow their mama around the pond. The male swan pulls up the rear; keeping everyone in a straight line.

It was a perfect outdoor day. The birds sang. Wind rustled the leaves. I got to see the swan family and best of all, I got to see that little fawn up close.

Happy trails til next Friday. Happy Canada Day!