A Winter’s Walk Around Oakland Lake
It was a crisp winter day. The ground was frozen and layered with multiple snowfalls. You could actually say the weather was frigid. Kelly, Max our dog, and I decided to take a walk around Oakland Lake that morning. The lake was frozen solid. As we walked on the path our boots scrunched the snow as we went along.
The park was deserted except for its winter inhabitants. There were the geese, the squirrels, the rabbits, and more. There was a shimmering stillness in the air.
Max, on the leash, was itching to be free to run around. Since we seemed like the only people in the park, Kelly finally took him off his leash. Max was ecstatic. He ran joyfully up the snow-covered banks on each side of the lake, weaving through the trees. He barked with glee and delight as he chased the squirrels and rabbits.
As we walked, we heard the rustle of the rushes where some of the waterfowl lived. In the skies, we heard the honking of geese flying above our heads. The park was so still and peaceful on that cold morning. It felt like we were walking through a picture-perfect Christmas card.
Suddenly, the geese landed on the frozen lake, and Max followed, giving chase right behind them. He slipped and slid out of control, heading toward the middle of the lake where the ice cracked, and Max fell in. In a split second, Kelly heroically jumped in after him, fully clothed, and rescued Max from the frigid water. The relief was immense.
After the terrifying ordeal, driving back to safety and warmth was a priority. Once at home, everyone warmed up, and Kelly’s actions were praised, although the narrator couldn’t stop reliving what could have happened. Finally, with everyone safe and sound, a moment of gratitude for getting through the chilling winter morning stayed with them.