10 Minutes in the Forest: What a surprise!

Posted on by Ilze

Sometimes, all I need is just a few moments of fresh air to clear my head. After struggling with my health for over 10 days, I knew an escape to the pine forest would do wonders for my respiratory system. So, I grabbed my camera and headed out, hoping that something beautiful might catch my eye. Nature rarely disappoints—and this time, it truly surprised me!

As I walked quietly among the trees, there it was—standing right in front of me, a young moose! I couldn’t believe my luck. I think this is the first time I’ve ever seen one so close in real life. He (or she?) stood calmly, as if curious about my presence, and for a moment, we simply looked at each other in silent understanding. I got my camera with me, like I knew this might happen!

I snapped a picture, not wanting to disturb the moment but feeling overjoyed that I had decided to come. Those ten minutes in the forest turned into an unforgettable encounter, reminding me why it’s always worth stepping outside, even if just for a short walk.

Ilze

Discover more from a day in the life of a latvian mom

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

67 thoughts on “10 Minutes in the Forest: What a surprise!”

  1. I’m sure such unexpected encounters with beautiful creatures can make your day. That’s why I love to go hiking in the nature. Unfortunately, no moose in this part of the world… but if I’m lucky I can spot a deer, wolf or a wild boar.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. It really is a special feeling! Nature always seems to have something new in store, even on trails I’ve walked a dozen times. I always feel like I’m part of something much bigger, almost as if the forest has its own way of saying hello. Do you have any favorite trails or places you like to hike? Or maybe a memorable wildlife encounter?

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

      1. I remember the first time I had an encounter with a deer I was really terrified. It happened totally unexpected. I love walking on the borders of a river. The sound of the washing water calms me down. But seeing little things like a butterfly also makes me feel happy…

        Liked by 1 person

        Reply

        1. I can totally relate! The first time you unexpectedly come across wildlife can be a bit startling, especially with something as graceful as a deer. But it’s amazing how quickly you learn to appreciate those moments. I love walking by rivers too—the sound of flowing water is so soothing. And you’re right, even small things like a butterfly can bring such joy. Nature has a way of calming us and reminding us to slow down, doesn’t it? Do you have a favorite spot along the river where you often go?

          Liked by 1 person

          Reply

          1. Yes, I’m lucky to have a trail close to my home where you can walk and follow a river for many km’s. There’s a beautiful spot with a wooden bench where I can do my meditation exercises (when it’s not raining…).

            Liked by 1 person

            Reply

            1. That sounds like a perfect spot for some peaceful reflection! Having a trail so close to home is such a gift, especially with the river and that beautiful bench for meditation. I can imagine it being such a serene place to clear your mind. Hopefully, the rain stays away long enough for you to enjoy it more often! Do you have a favorite time of day to go? 😊

              Liked by 1 person

              Reply

                1. What a lovely routine! There’s something so energizing about soaking in the sunshine at noon. 🌞 Wishing you a wonderful weekend too—may it be filled with warmth and joy! 😊

                  Liked by 1 person

                  Reply

      1. What comes to mind are unpleasant ones like being close to snakes and skunks. I’ve also see Deer and Buffalo but not as close as you did. I’ve also seen a couple of bears close enough for me when we were vacationing. I live in a larger city so not a lot of wildlife around here but squirrels, bobcats and the occasional coyotes.

        Liked by 1 person

        Reply

    1. It truly was a special surprise! Moose have such a majestic presence; I feel so lucky to have seen one up close. They must be rare sightings in some parts of the U.S. Do you have other wildlife around that you enjoy spotting?

      Like

      Reply

      1. Yes, for one who lives in town I have an awful lot of visitors to my yard! Lots of deer, bunnies, skunks, raccoons, and birds! All lovely, but common. To see anything exotic I would have to visit the zoo!

        Liked by 1 person

        Reply

        1. That sounds like a wonderful variety of visitors! It must be such a treat to see all those animals right in your yard. Even the more common creatures can be so charming and fun to watch. I completely get what you mean about the zoo—it’s the only place to see some of the more exotic ones up close. Do any of your visitors have quirky habits or things you’ve noticed about them?

          Like

          Reply

          1. Well I can’t help noticing the deer and bunnies like to eat pretty much anything I plant, except zinnias, lol. Which is why I grow my tomatoes in pots on the porch. I have a naughty pair of squirrels who like to wait until my dog is almost upon them, then race up into the tree and scold her from above. Drives her crazy!

            Liked by 1 person

            Reply

            1. It sounds like you’ve got quite the lively backyard crew! 😊 Deer and bunnies do have a habit of making themselves at home in gardens—smart move with the zinnias and porch tomatoes! And those squirrels sound like real characters. I can just picture them taunting your dog from the safety of the tree—it must be quite the sight! Does your dog ever try to outsmart them? 😄

              Like

              Reply

    1. Thank you so much, Mike! I think the moose was a natural in front of the camera—it really did seem to strike a perfect pose! 😊 I’m thrilled with how the lens performed; it’s been fantastic for capturing details and keeping that sharp contrast, even from far off. I’m glad you noticed! Are you working with any new lenses or gear lately?

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

      1. it’s really amazing how well the mirrorless cameras work. i admit I was a stout holdout against adopting the technology but i’ve found it to be so much more useful than I imagined. and I can still use legacy lenses with it so that’s ok by me. I’ll still keep my dslrs but the technological advancement is undeniable. I don’t know if I told you before but I finally got one of 2 of my dream lenses which was the 85mm 1.2. it’s a used copy but it was a copy that my friend thought was optically the best of the copies he had for sale. I am beyond thrilled with its performance. I’ll post up the pictures for this Friday as I’ve posted too long of a post on Tuesday and want to have something simpler for people to enjoy.

        Liked by 1 person

        Reply

        1. It really is impressive how quickly the technology has evolved. I was also a bit cautious at first, but now I can’t imagine going back. The combination of legacy lens compatibility and the benefits of mirrorless is definitely a game-changer. I’m so excited to see how the 85mm 1.2 works out for you—it’s got such beautiful potential for those dreamy portraits! Do you have any specific shoots or subjects in mind that you’re planning to capture with it?

          Liked by 1 person

          Reply

          1. it really is a game changer. I bought the Canon R so as I wouldn’t be too financially deep into mirrorless and I’d have some decent resolution but as soon as I realized that any point on the screen could be a focus point, i knew mirrorless had overtaken even the best dslr technology.

            i won’t have time to take photos this week so what I’ve been doing is finding shots that I’ve taken with the 85mm when I was lucky enough to rent it. if there’s enough shots, I’ll just do that as a post on Friday! 😀

            Liked by 1 person

            Reply

            1. It really is a game changer, isn’t it? The ability to focus on any point of the screen is such a leap forward—it makes framing and capturing shots so much more intuitive. The Canon R sounds like a smart choice to dip into the mirrorless world without going all in financially right away.

              Your plan for Friday’s post sounds great! The 85mm produces such beautiful results, so I’m sure your readers will love seeing those earlier shots. Renting lenses is such a great way to explore new possibilities. Have you already got a few favorites from those photos lined up? 😊

              Like

              Reply

    1. Thank you, Derrick! I’m glad you enjoyed the photo. It was such a memorable moment—I’m happy (some say – grateful) to have captured it so clearly. Nature really does provide the best surprises!

      Liked by 2 people

      Reply

    1. I know, right? Seeing a juvenile moose was such a treat—there’s something so sweet and curious about them at that age. I feel so lucky to have caught that moment! Have you had any memorable wildlife sightings lately?

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

        1. That’s amazing! Spotting a coyote must have been such an exciting experience—definitely not something you see every day! We don’t have coyotes! And good birds always add so much life to a walk. Do you have a favorite bird you’ve seen so far? 😊

          Liked by 1 person

          Reply

          1. It was pretty neat seeing that Coyote as it was already well into morning when it should have been in its den, but it was quite brazen and came right out on the golf course then crossed to the hill below my neighbors house. Probably hoping for a late breakfast before bed.
            The best birds I’ve seen lately have been a Belted Kingfisher, and a Bald Eagle.

            Liked by 1 person

            Reply

            1. That sounds like such a memorable encounter with the coyote! It’s always fascinating when wildlife defies the usual patterns and shows up in unexpected places. Maybe it was a nocturnal creature stretching out its day a bit longer, looking for one last snack before heading home.

              The Belted Kingfisher and Bald Eagle sound like incredible sightings too! The kingfisher must’ve been stunning with its vivid colors, and a Bald Eagle is such a majestic bird to spot. Have you managed to get photos of any of them? They must make for some amazing shots! 🦅📸 If shared on your blog, please link here.

              Liked by 1 person

              Reply

              1. I haven’t posted any of those images that I made yet. The Bald Eagle was a bit out of range and a side view of it so not the best image, but the Belted Kingfisher is worth sharing.

                We had just changed times back to standard time I wondered if the Coyote found that daylight came in earlier than it anticipated and it still needed to have breakfast? I hadn’t thought about the birds and wildlife having to adjust to our time changes like we do. Somehow I thought they just knew it was happening and rolled with it with ease.

                Liked by 1 person

                Reply

                1. That’s a good point! If the deer usually cross at 3 PM and now it’s 2 PM because of the time change, it probably doesn’t matter to them whether it’s 2 or 3—they’re just following the light and their instincts. Nature has its own perfect schedule! 😊
                  I totally get that—I hate changing the clocks too! It’s like my body knows something is coming because I start waking up earlier the week before. Then after the time change, it’s such a drastic shift, and I feel completely exhausted. Why can’t we just stick to one time? 😩

                  Like

                  Reply

    1. Yes, it’s a juvenile moose, which is why the antlers are still so small! They’re truly magnificent creatures, but you’re right—it’s best to keep a respectful distance. It was an unforgettable sight, though! Have you ever had the chance to see one up close, or encountered any other wildlife in your area?

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

                  1. Yes, it’s a Nikkor 200mm, I use it mostly on the Nikon Z5 body, it will work on the recently purchased Z30 body too. All of my lenses work on either Nikon Z series which is so cool! I have been using the smaller Z30 camera a lot more lately.

                    It’s about 1/3 smaller, lighter and works nicely with the 26mm lens. I’m traveling home to Michigan soon for a few days and will be taking the Z30 with me since it is so small. It will be nice to have another camera option than just the iPhone 15 on a trip.

                    Liked by 1 person

                    Reply

                    2. That’s solid thinking, Ilze! The issue is that I am forever single, no more marriages and always use a carry on suitcase. I have to take my CPAP machine too so space is very limited. i have an 18-50mm lens that is slightly larger than the 26mm lens and is an option for the Z30 body.

                      Like

                    4. Oh, sorry, Ilze… Duh! that’s tough to carry when biking but I can drive there easily! BTW, I forgot to answer your question about my BP. It is crazy! It can go up to 161/85, or like today it’s very low and I have no idea why. This is why I am getting a referral to see an endocrinologist. This could be a hormone issue… The adrenal glands are the focus as they control BP and hormones.

                      Liked by 1 person

                    5. No worries! That’s great that you can drive there easily. 😊 As for your BP, that does sound concerning. It’s good that you’re getting a referral to an endocrinologist—it could bring some much-needed answers. The adrenal glands being involved makes sense, given their role in hormone regulation. Fingers crossed you get clarity soon! Let me know how it goes. 💛

                      Liked by 1 person

    1. It really was! Moments like that make every step worth it. Nature has a way of rewarding you when you least expect it. I’m so glad I was there to witness it! Do you have any memorable encounters like that from your walks?

      Like

      Reply

        1. Those encounters sound magical! There’s something so serene about spotting a fox on a misty morning or seeing a deer in the forest. And a kingfisher is such a beautiful, vibrant bird to catch a glimpse of! Even without the moose, it seems like nature in the UK has its own special moments to offer. Do you have a favorite place for animal sightings, or do they happen more spontaneously?

          Like

          Reply

            1. It sounds wonderful to have both the coast and green spaces so close by! I live in rural Latvia, surrounded by open fields and forests, which makes for beautiful scenery, especially in autumn. We’re also renovating a historic house, so it’s been lovely to take breaks and walk through nearby woodlands or enjoy it.

              Like

              Reply

  9. Beautiful photos, Ilze! While my close encounters haven’t been with animals as large as your moose, the feeling of standing face-to-face with such a magnificent creature is indescribable and unforgettable. It’s as if your whole body comes alive, on full alert—it’s hard to put into words, at least for me! 😊

    Caution is always essential, especially with wildlife like that. The deer I photograph tend to be more afraid of humans.

    Wishing you lots of joy in your photography and a speedy recovery!

    Marc

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Thanks again, Marc!

      I completely agree—there’s something so powerful about those close encounters with wildlife. The feeling is hard to describe, but it’s like time slows down, and you’re just fully present in that moment.

      Do you have a favorite place where you like to photograph the deer, or do they pop up unexpectedly? I’m always curious to hear about others’ wildlife photography experiences! 😊

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

      1. I have a few spots where I know herons and cormorants like to gather, as well as other wildlife. These places are part of my regular routes when I go out with my electric mountain bike. The bike is a game-changer for me—it can handle even the toughest terrain, which is crucial since I have two damaged hips.

        With the e-bike, almost anything is possible. I visit these spots at specific times, knowing the animals are likely to be there. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of finding a good place to sit quietly and wait, soaking in the peace of nature. Other times, I might only stay briefly before moving on to explore another location.

        For me, the biggest game-changer has been my camera gear. I started with Pentax and Fuji systems using a 1.5x crop factor, but now I use Olympus – OM System with 2x crop, and the difference is remarkable.
        With my 100-400mm lens and a 1.4x teleconverter, I can achieve an impressive 1120mm full-frame equivalent focal length, all while maintaining a relatively small and compact setup.
        When I’m out on my bike, I usually carry three cameras and four lenses, including the 100-400mm, all neatly stored in a case. Despite the extensive setup, it remains surprisingly portable.

        Liked by 1 person

        Reply

        1. Wow, your setup sounds incredible! Combining an electric mountain bike with such powerful camera gear truly opens up endless possibilities for exploring and capturing nature. It’s inspiring how you’ve adapted to the challenges with damaged hips and still manage to enjoy these beautiful moments in the wild.

          Your approach of visiting wildlife spots at just the right time and waiting patiently to soak in the peace of nature must result in some breathtaking shots. That 1120mm focal length sounds like a dream for wildlife photography—so much reach without sacrificing portability! It’s clear how much passion and effort you put into this, and it must be so rewarding. 😊
          I got my Canon 100-500mm lens about a week ago, and while I also have a 2x extender, I haven’t had the chance to use it yet. The autumn weather here is quite gray, and with the sun setting as early as 3 PM, the lighting conditions haven’t been ideal.

          Wishing you many more peaceful and successful adventures on your bike and behind the lens! 🚴‍♂️📸✨

          Liked by 1 person

          Reply
  12. Pingback: Your Most Loved Posts of 2024 – a day in the life of a latvian mom
  13. Pingback: Nature’s Unexpected Gifts – a day in the life of a latvian mom

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *