Saturday, November 2, 2013

Le Aqua Na Stae Park

     "Want to go for a walk? How about in the local state park: Le Aqua Na State Park just a stone's throw from here?" When the response was "Yes" we packed picnic lunches consisting of water, peanut butter sandwiches and yogurt and set out.
     Another clear pleasant summer day in August Another drive through the northern Illinois prairie land. Wildflowers from chicory to Queen Anne's lace to black - eyed Susans danced in the mild breeze as we puttered our way to the park. Entering the back way we stopped at the first parking area and launched ourselves onto the Sweet Gum Trail.
     What a lovely walk on a well groomed horse/pedestrian trail. The sun shimmered through the high canopied trees. The rustle of our feet on the sandy path startled a white tail deer. Meandering on the serpentine path we met no one - not equine nor human.
     Took pictures - stopped to rest on benches.
     Strolled through a prairie land section lined with bird houses.
     Attempting to circumnavigate this area, this writer proceeded to take the wrong path and added a mile or two on the ramble. Retraced our steps and all was well. Thankfully my fellow traveler was in a forgiving mood. At this point he called a halt to the proceedings. Returned to the car and grabbed our lunches and padded down to the lake.
     More pictures and a peaceful repast alongside a calm looking lake (despite signs indicating Northern Pike lurking in the waters).
     With  contented sighs we soaked up the ambience and relaxed under a warm and gentle sun. Gradually we packed our belongings and headed back to the car. A farewell greeting from a mother deer and her twin fawns completed the excursion to our satisfaction.