Early this morning...

This morning, I ventured out for my daily walk around my neighbourhood, the sky overcast, casting a soft, muted light on the surroundings. The air was crisp, hovering around 2ºC, fresh and invigorating and filled with the aroma of wet and decaying vegetation. It was one of those peaceful mornings.

As I returned home, I walked along Salisbury Road with my pocket camera, noticing a couple walking toward me on the other side. They walked in tandem, the woman cradling a baby wrapped snugly against the chill. I raised my camera, capturing this simple moment of family and warmth amidst the cold. I smiled, connecting to this brief shared slice of life.

Continuing my walk, I climbed the small hill on Salisbury Road. I turned my lens towards the back of the houses lining Jackson Avenue. My attention was drawn to the neat lines of the drains in the run-off area. These drains, often ignored, play an essential role in managing rain and melting snow, channelling water underground to prevent flooding. When covered in snow in winter, the gentle slopes become a playground buzzing with children's laughter. I took my kids to play here when they were younger. They would sledge down, their lively shrieks piercing the cold air, their faces flushed with excitement and cold. I also captured this scene as a reminder of how simple joys persist, even in the most structured of environments, and how every element around us, no matter how mundane, has its own story.

Author:Khürt Williams

A human who works in information security and enjoys photography, Formula 1 and craft ale.