Today, we had our first walk in the woods for 2016. Nothing too complicated, a simple 1.5hr hike in the Gatineau Park. It was also the first hike since the day when I decided to take early retirement and focus on writing. What a difference! I can still recall my state of mind late last summer, on this very same trail, when I knew that the next day would see me back in the bowels of the demented bureaucracy, fending off dragons and battling orcs. It was nice to simply enjoy nature today, without worrying about work. My commute tomorrow morning will be measured in meters and my boss will be looking back at me from the mirror when I brush my teeth.
I took this picture along the Lauriault Trail, just above the waterfall. It was just cool enough to be comfortable on an otherwise sweltering day, and the bugs didn’t bother us too much.
Fatal Blade has been out for five days now and seems to be doing well. In another two months, Like Stars in Heaven will join it. At the current rate of progress, I should have the manuscript in my editor’s hands by the end of June. Perhaps I’ll be able to celebrate the one year anniversary of my decision to retire with the publication of the fourth Decker’s War adventure this coming November.
Gatineau Park is so gorgeous. I’m a particular fan of the Kingsmere area. Such an odd/eclectic bit of scenery to find so close to Ottawa. 🙂
Sounds like you did the very best thing!