Even the promise of rain in the afternoon couldn’t drag me out of bed early. My busy few weeks, plus a restless night on the train, saw me sleep in and it was after noon when I left the house.
With an umbrella in hand I headed to the river front, walking along part of the Meewasin Trail I missed yesterday when I was on the other side. Despite being a stones throw from the city centre, the local geese weren’t bothered at all. I came across a little flock (soooo many babies) on the edge of the path. One of the older ones, I assume Dad, made it clear us humans were not welcome, hissing and flapping his wings when a walker or runner got too close. 
I followed the trail up to the Mendel Gallery, Saskatoon’s most popular art gallery. There were some great exhibitions on, including School Art featuring the work of primary and secondary school students in the area. There were some amazing pieces there. I may be easily impressed though when, at 27, a stick figure is the best drawing you’re going to get out of me. There is also an adjoining conservatory, which was really relaxing to walk through before heading back outside. There’s even a banana tree, although the fruit is a little way from being ready.
I headed into the suburbs walking around a lovely area (lots of trees, gorgeous big houses, quiet streets) that Neil, my CS host, later informed me in called City Park. Then it was back to the Meewasin Trail. I’ll write more about the trail another time, but it really was a gorgeous little walk. After reaching the weir, and the pelicans who arrive about this time of year, I crossed on the railway bridge. I was climbing up the stairs to it when a freight train thundered across. I’m not great with heights so I stood frozen on the shaking staircase, gripping the hand rail, before slowing climbing further up. Just as I reached the walkway (divided from the tracks by a little fence) the last carriages went past.
The railway bridge gave a great view of the city….well that’s if you could find it among all the trees. Aside from the taller buildings in the city centre, most of the residential areas are submerged under a sea of green. It really is a pretty sight. And being prairie land, you can see for miles and miles. As my CS host pointed out, if you want a workout on your bike, you have to travel a fair bit. No inclines to be found.
I walked back down the other side and home in time to cook dinner for Neil.
