I've learned over the years not to worry if I get a late start or change my mind about my original plan.
There may be a reason not to go in the direction I was headed.
On this particular day, I had planned to take a hike from the trailhead near my house, beginning on hwy 484. But when I came to the hwy, the traffic was at a standstill to my left. So I turned right and drove to Halpata Tastanaki Preserve.
It was a beautiful day and I saw lots of birds and wildlife.
I love this new sign on the fence post.
Gray Catbird
I found out when I got home and searched online that the traffic was stopped because of a bad wreck involving 2 cars and an ambulance. It had happened less than an hour before I left my house. So I was thankful for my late start that morning.
I watched 2 Florida Scrub Jays from a distance.
I see the most variety here on the HTP preserve and it's one of the first (it's actually the second) trail we ever hiked here in this part of Florida.
Three White-tailed Deer ran across the trail right in front of me! I was happy that ONE showed up in my photo!
Dove
Flycatcher
Monster (thanks for asking, Iris! I always wonder if anyone will question my 'monsters'. This is a broken trunk of a tree about 4 ft high. It looked like a huge 'monster' bird...just for fun!)
And how about this very cute animal track!
So it turns out that Plan B was the best plan. It's great to have so many trails close by so that I have choices. I have much to be thankful for!
Are you having good weather to enjoy time outdoors?