Farewell Dear Forest.
“ There were locations I always paused at to admire and trees I would greet as I walked by. ”
I will miss the trails I walked daily with Aspen. They held my grief and sorrow while processing many challenges I faced since moving here. The first time I stepped into the forest just north of where we lived, I was abundantly cautious. I was confused about why it felt so unwelcoming compared to the forests I knew near Bonnyville. Every time I ventured into the woods, I would go further down one path or discover where a new trail led me. After a few weeks of navigating the unknown paths, I felt sure about how to get around. I learned the routes of least resistance and gradual incline as opposed to steep climbs. I started noticing unique features in the landscape and old signs of human impact. There were locations I always paused at to admire and trees I would greet as I walked by. This landscape contrasted with the suburbia of Whitehorse and aided me in regulating my mental state. As I say goodbye to a few people I will miss, I also thank this ecosystem for letting me become acquainted with it.
We depart this weekend from the Yukon and close a chapter that has involved a lot of pain and refining growth. The future is uncertain, and I anticipate more hardship. However, I am confident a new ecosystem and community will accompany me through the trials.
Although the photos I'm sharing are seasonal, they are from last year. I am still editing files from months ago, and at the rate I'm doing new work, I doubt I'll catch up soon. Photos of the Yukon will be shared for the next few months, and I hope you enjoy them while they last!
