The rain was supposed to stop at 10:10 am. Knowing the forecast can’t always be trusted, the thirteen who met at Waterfront Park were dressed for the weather. Just as well, as it was a damp — well, all right, positively wet — walk.

We walked west from the starting point along the Spirit Trail and turned right to take the bridge across the railway line. On the other side of West 1st Street, we turned into Hyak Park and crossed a bridge over MacKay Creek. Here, two of our number chose discretion over valour and retraced their steps to wander and perhaps pursue retail opportunities until the time of Afters.

The rest of us crossed Marine Drive and entered Heywood Park and followed a meandering trail upwards alongside MacKay Creek. The creek was high and the water rushed along. And the rain continued.

We crossed the orange bridge over the highway and walked through Murdo Frazer Park. Here, there was a brief snack break.

Stopping at the duck pond, we checked for ducks (none) and turtles (none); however, the wildlife requirement was satisfied by a somewhat dishevelled heron.

We looked across at the recently renovated Murdo Frazer cabin.

Resuming, we ascended the staircase into Edgemont Village and headed up Highland Boulevard to the corner of Belmont, where we found one of the larger collections of inflatable Christmas decorations to be seen in these parts.

Walking east on Belmont, we joined Lower Mosquito Creek Trail where we began the descent for our return journey. At some point around here the rain finally stopped.

Emerging from Mosquito Creek Park, we said farewell to two of our number who constituted today’s coffee crowd.

Just past Marine Drive there is a tunnel with water flowing perilously high next to it. But we safely made it through and rejoined the Spirit Trail leading to our Afters at Strathcona North, where we were joined by Diane and Mo.

Photos: Adrienne, Angela, Jon, Michael