When the urge to seek out a hidden gem like the elusive waterfall at Sombrio Beach beckons, the journey becomes a tapestry of unexpected adventures and small delights. Accompanied by my fur baby Baylee, I set off with high hopes of capturing the beauty of cascading waters and perhaps spotting some wildlife along the way. The drive itself was a treat, the kind of day where the sun's warmth is just right, not too hot, and the scenery along the way offers a preview of the natural beauty awaiting us.
Upon arriving at Sombrio Beach, it was clear that we weren't the only ones drawn to its natural allure. The beach was alive with the hustle and bustle of campers and day-trippers, their tents and laughter mingling with the sound of the waves. While the lively atmosphere was a contrast to the solitude I usually seek, it brought its own vibrant energy to the setting.
Determined to find the waterfall, Baylee and I embarked on our hike, only to be met with a different kind of discovery. Instead of the anticipated waterfall, we stumbled upon a charming suspension bridge. This unexpected find offered a unique perspective of the surroundings, and I took the opportunity to snap some black and white photos of the foliage, capturing the intricate play of light and shadow.
The absence of abundant wildlife was a bit of a letdown, with only a few black and brown ducks and a lone slug making an appearance. However, this scarcity turned my focus inward. I decided to practice mindfulness, embracing the present moment and seeking out patterns in rocks and driftwood. The textures and shapes became my subjects, each one telling its own story through the lens of my camera.
Photography, for me, is more than just capturing images; it's a way to ground myself and stay present in the moment. Each click of the shutter helped me focus, turning my migraine into a distant memory. I found solace in the details, the intricate designs in the rocks and driftwood, and the way the light and shadows played on the leaves.
Baylee truly impressed me today. Not only was she bouncing all over the place with excitement and wonder, but you wouldn't know that she's losing her sight and has two knee replacements (and a few other issues). She tried to navigate a very deep and high step with tree roots, and although she didn't make it on the first attempt, she tried again. No fear, no hesitation, just persistence. It was incredible to witness. She reminds me that if you don't succeed at first, try again and do it with fearlessness.
The return journey was equally delightful, with the warm summer air and scenic vistas providing a serene end to our outing. While we didn't find the waterfall, our trip to Sombrio Beach was far from disappointing. It reinforced the idea that sometimes, the best adventures come from the unexpected, and the true essence of travel lies in embracing every moment, no matter how it deviates from the plan.
Sombrio Beach didn't reveal all its secrets to us, but the journey itself was a gift. Through the lens of my camera and the company of Baylee, I found beauty in unexpected places. This adventure reminded me that sometimes, the journey is more important than the destination, and there's always something to be grateful for in the embrace of nature. Until our next adventure.....
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