I decided to "duck" out at lunchtime and snag a nearby
letterbox. The paved path is rough having been made uneven by roots
pushing up. This is the second box I have successfully located
without a compass when the directions contained bearings. But at the
junction there was a path going roughly the direction I had estimated
I should go and I was successful on my first attempt and did not have
to backtrack.

Puddle Duck is an apt description. With all the rain we have been
getting there was standing water on the right side of the path. The
paces (two footfalls) counted out just right. When it came time to
leave the trail the ground was squishy mud. I took a tentative first
step and did not sink up to my ankles so decided to try another step.
When I could pull my foot up for a step and not leave my shoe behind
I whooped for joy. I hadn't quite figured out how I was going to
return to work muddy and shoeless.

The contents were dry and snug in their box.

I did not see another person on the trail although they were coming
and going at the library. On my trek out, a nearby squirrel ignored
me, but I disturbed a chipmunk that proceeded to run along the trail
and was sure I was after him. When I finally turned toward the
parking lot he stopped still, stood, and watched me closely as I
retreated.

That's when I discovered that although I had made it out with
both my shoes, I had still managed to splash mud up my slacks. But I
had my stamp so I was happy!

--Mahjong