Today was my 2nd pandemic birthday and like last year my planned African safari was canceled. (Surely the 3rd time will be the charm, April 2022 baby!) But this year was better than last because at least I was able to take a short, close trip to the Berkshires in western MA.

I hiked Basin Pond this morning, my first real hike in quite some time. It was a lovely day and a great trail. Very well marked, charming natural stone stairs and pathways, two adorable burbling brooks… On the downside, the trail told me volumes about just how far I am from being ‘in shape’. But the upside considerably outweighed the down and I had an enjoyable, peaceful several hours outdoors.

Animals Seen: 1) A sneaky little snake (shoutout to KEB) pretending to be a twig until he slithered quickly off to the left. 2) An early butterfly; I’m 95% certain it was real and not a vision of some sort. 3) An adorable chipmunk, who paused for a moment as if willing to pose, then scampered off.

Animals Unseen: 1) Beaver, although they are prevalent at the pond and have played a pivotal role in shaping it. 2) Moose – I was surprised to read that moose are seen here and disappointed not to see any.

Animals Photographed: None. I actually forgot my ‘real’ camera on this trip (d’oh!) and was left with my phone. Not that that’s why I didn’t photograph any animals but still… I guess I’m glad I didn’t see any moose or beaver because I would have been furious to see them and not have my camera and lenses. See how things just work out? 😂

Here are a few pics and videos. It’s nice to be back home with adequate WiFi, lol. Enjoy!