I love discovering less-known spots, so one day I set out to explore coastal backroads. I found winding marsh lanes, hidden boat launches, secluded inlets where few others ventured. I parked the car, trekked soft sand paths, and glimpsed herons stalking fish, fiddler crabs scuttling, dragonflies dancing.

Back at camp I concocted a “camp chili” — sautéed onion, bell pepper, ground turkey (or beans), tomato, corn, and southwestern spices, simmered in a Dutch oven over coals. Served with shredded cheese and cornbread muffins I baked earlier.

At dusk I returned to the pier, lit my headlamp, cast bait, and let the horizon settle. The hush was profound. Solitude in nature can heal.

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Madison Greenwood