Happy Walk Series France: A Walk in the Forest

Deja vu. Well, almost. Five years ago, we stopped here for a picnic. I remember wanting to explore the park after an early dinner on the park benches but the sun was quick to leave and we had an hour's worth of drive left. Needless to say, I missed that chance. Yet, life has its way of throwing in surprises and saying,"Cuckoo!" I daresay one of the happiest weekends I've ever had was yesterday when the family decided to spend an afternoon for a reflective walk here under the same canopy of trees, in the same forest park in Orlonne Sur Mer called Les Gravelots.

Click on the link here for the 5.1 km circuit that are perfect for both; bikes and nature walk. Below is exactly where we had that picnic five years ago. 

The sound of birds, the scent of freshly cut grass and pine, with the occasional sound of bikes whipping past, all of these sensations entwined, made the experience more vivid. In between, there were quiet moments.  These peaceful moments where I watch the family walk many yards in front of me or sometimes several steps behind. I enjoyed these quiet times savouring the life within the greens, the pulse and energy that seems to embrace my being with vitality.  I've never felt so present. No thoughts. Just being.  From time to time, I steal a glance at my daughter who's also quiet, enjoying the same beauty that I'm seeing with big eyes filled with curiosity to the brim. I am happy to see her discover the magnificence of it.  I watched my family and whispered to God how thankful I am for this moment, for being here. The miles can stretch even longer and I'm willing to walk for as long as my knees can hold.  "Cuckoo, I'm happy."

"But on this beautiful path, I walk in peace.

With each step, the wind blows.

With each step, the flowers bloom."

Thich Naht Hank