Mishaka Pond The forest reflected in the pond caught me mid-yawn

I got up early and made it to Mishaka Pond. I left my car in the car park and stepped onto the path along the road. The forest on the far shore was mirrored in the water. I was still a little sleepy, but the moment I saw that view, my pace slowed.

I stopped in front of the pond, and a yawn slipped out. I covered my mouth with one hand and closed my eyes for just a moment. I’d come all this way to see such a beautiful view, and the first thing I did was yawn. I decided I could congratulate myself for getting up early a little later.

When I lowered my hand and opened my eyes, the forest was still there waiting for me. There were trees on the far shore, and there they were again in the water below. I traced the branches from top to bottom and, for a moment, lost track of which side I was looking at. It wasn’t because I was sleepy; they really did look alike. I checked again.

As I looked beyond the thin morning mist, I completely forgot about my yawn. The photos had made the pond look peaceful, but seeing it in person made me want to stay much longer. Before taking a photo, I wanted to take it all in and remember it for myself.

I kept looking from the forest to its reflection and back again, without moving from the spot. I didn’t need to hurry on to the next view; the longer I stayed, the more there was to see. This time, I really was glad I’d got up so early.

Before leaving, I looked at the pond once more. When I show my friend the photos, I’ll tell her I yawned, too. She’ll probably laugh, but I also want to tell her how long I stood there, completely absorbed in the view. Next time I have to get up early, maybe remembering this view will get me out of bed.