I left behind several things I could have been doing instead. Washing my car. Working more on the newsletter (I did some good work there earlier, though). Sorting through the clutter. Yet it felt so good, so right, and I felt no guilt. These feelings of exhilaration I get from these drives and hikes are certainly far better than any medication will ever be for depression.
On the way home I stopped to see the seals again. The babies are all over! The sounds so wonderful, moms barking at each other, babies chasing after moms, with their little cries, the occasional male asserting himself.
I always think how lucky I am to be able to do this kind of thing. No amount of money could ever make up for the loss of such opportunity.