Ode to Dougal.

I took Dougal for a big nature adventure today! We used to walk down in the river valley several times a week but I haven't done it since Dexter was born. Not even in the summertime! It's not really the best place for a stroller and I could strap him on but he didn't particularly like going around in the carrier over the summer because it was so hot.

Today Dexter was over at my mom's, I had a nice chunk of time free this afternoon, and the weather was amazing. We went for a super walk.

On the way to the trail I saw this dude winter riding. Most of the cyclists I see year round look like this. Sporty. Notice the pants tucked into socks? Of course I am still supportive of anybody who choses alternative modes of transportation. It's just that seeing guys like this was the sort of thing that used to make me feel like I couldn't winter ride. I have since then obviously learned to do it my own way.




The light was great. So sunny. I just wore a light spring jacket and scarf. I didn't even do the jacket up. No mitts either. Glorious.

I've always liked these trees with the berries. They're like nature's accessories.




Big evergreens.




More berries.




Erosion and roots.




Down by the river we ran into a dog friend, Gypsy, and it turns out her owner lives just a few blocks away. We walked all the way back up together.





Chase!




Attack!








Back at home I got ready for work. Wore a Usagi (Japanese, for bunny) hair clip.




And a uniform-like jacket.




And a blouse with a bow tie.




Tried to keep my hair in place.




Dougal is clearly a dedicated pet. He often sits at the feet of my students, as witnessed here.




I wonder if he thinks he'll get benefits and pension by being a teacher's assistant.




After work I went to Red Star pub via Kona and train to have some eats with a new friend, Tom. I was telling him about how Richard and I first became friends in grade 10. Richard used to sit in front of me in English and he turned around to notice I was wearing a sailor moon t-shirt one day. Tom then pointed out to me that my outfit looked very sailor moon. Like when the sailor scouts are in their civilian school clothes. Oh Japanese animé, how I unconsciously take my style cues from you.