That idea of spotting little problems before they get big is so key. What was one of those small things you caught that would have turned into a huge hassle? (Like, a cracked egg in the nest box that could attract pests, maybe.) I'm curious how this morning check changes your mindset for the whole day, honestly. It seems like it turns a chore into a preventative measure. Do you do anything else differently now because you start with them?

How deep was that creek when you decided to turn back? I got spooked once and just waited until early morning when the flow was lower, and always use my poles for balance now.