tranquil Lake Ralphine’s
sweet Monday morning magic
to start the week right
One of my favorite spots to visit in Sonoma County is Howarth Park. it’s located in the southeast part of Santa Rosa, right on Summerfield Road. One of its draws is Lake Ralphine, which is about 22 acres in size. There are several trails around it, some leading through hillsides studded with oak, madrone and manzanita trees. Part of one trail around the lake winds right along the water’s edge. Just a few minutes from where the lakeside trail started, I noticed this beautiful swan couple and their six cygnets calmly swimming and preening themselves. I stopped and almost froze because I didn’t want them to swim off. The parents definitely kept an eye on me, but never hissed or got territorial. So I just stood there and watched for a while.
Being this close to them was a magical moment!
Then I headed back towards the boathouse, where my friend Trish was waiting for me …
in cahoots with muddy boots 
I love the swans and the videos of them. They are so zen. Glad you had a good time.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It was very zen, Marlene! It just kind of unfolded, slowly walking down the path and suddenly there were these swans. I did have a good time. A really good time.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Such a beautiful and tranquil post Sabine – I loved seeing the cygnets swimming after Mom and Dad – how lucky you were to see them and photograph them as well. Two years in a row I went looking for cygnets to no avail – maybe the third year will be the charm. I hope so!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes it was a really nice encounter along the trail! I’ll cross my fingers for you to see cygnets next year!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Sabine – you knew those pictures that you had told me about would warm my heart … who cannot love those fuzzy little chicks trailing behind their moms and pop close by monitoring them as well.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Beautiful shots Sabine! Love them all.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Arlene! I’m glad that you like them! 🙋
LikeLiked by 1 person
They are so majestic. Beautiful. I love how the water looks, as well – dark, yet reflective. Happy week, Sabine!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Missy! Have a fabulous week!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Awwww those little babies!!! 🙂 Amazing shots and video
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, M.B.! I had fun being right there and observe all the action! 🙋
LikeLiked by 1 person
They are sooooooo cute! What a blessing to see these little ones up so close. So glad you shared the experience with us.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh LuAnne, this was one of those magical moments in life! And it was early Monday morning and my last day there! Thanks for always reading and commenting! 🙋
LikeLiked by 1 person