A Walk and a Pleasant Surprise

I was walking through the woods near the Academy on Friday afternoon. It was so good to have a break from all that studying.
I rested against a pine tree for a moment.

But then I decided it would be fun to go off the beaten path and explore around. I knew that you're not supposed to, but I knew those woods pretty well.

After about five minutes of walking off the path, I found a gathering of abalone shells. Well, I'm not sure if they're abalones, but they look like it. I thought it was so cool! I wondered if anyone else had seen it.

Then, I gasped. That was the BIGGEST TREE I had ever seen! Look how big it is! I laughed. How does a tree grow that big?

Then, I heard a tour coming, and I leapt into this bush with the giant leaves. About 15 feet off, a group walked by on the path. I scooted behind one of the giant leaves. Was the path this close? I would have to wander off a bit more.

Good thing they didn't spot my skirt and boots! Can you see me?

After the group passed by, I continued on my walk. I was very pleased to see that the trees were healthy! See the little buds on the leaves?

Then, I came upon a stone bench, and sat down. I relaxed for about 15 minutes until a blond-haired girl hiked up to the bench and sat down.

I looked over, and a smile spread across my face. It was my bestie!

"JULIE!"
And that was the pleasant surprise. :)