Stories from the road

This morning was special.

My wife and I decided to take an 8 km walk around our neighborhood—a route that beautifully blends nature, village life, and calmness. It turned out to be one of those walks where time slows down and every step makes you more grateful for the simple joys around you.

We started just after sunrise, when the air was still crisp and fresh. The walking track around the nearby lake is one of our favorite paths, and today it looked even more inviting with dew-kissed grass and the soft glow of morning light dancing on the water. The lake itself was a sight to behold—calm, expansive, and dotted with blooming lotus flowers that looked like nature’s own art installation.

As we walked around the lake, the chirping of birds formed a natural soundtrack, while occasional breezes rustled the leaves and brushed past us like whispers from the trees. The track was well-maintained and surrounded by lush greenery, making every step a refreshing one.

Further along the route, the scenery transitioned into a nearby village. Life here moves at a gentler pace. We passed by grazing cows and goats, their bells chiming rhythmically as they moved. Hens clucked cheerfully in the courtyards of traditional homes, and we couldn’t help but smile at the raw simplicity and charm of rural life.

Around the halfway point, we took a short break under a giant tree, whose branches provided cool shade like a canopy. From a nearby vendor, we enjoyed fresh coconut water—sweet, cooling, and just what we needed. Sipping it slowly while sitting on a stone bench, we looked out at the lake again, watching lotuses sway gently in the water. It was one of those small yet unforgettable moments.

The final stretch of the walk was quiet and contemplative. With the sun rising higher, the warmth was just setting in. We reached home feeling refreshed, recharged, and deeply connected—with each other and with nature.

Sometimes, you don’t need a vacation or a grand destination. A simple morning walk with a loved one, surrounded by beauty and life, is enough to nourish your soul.