Isomi Tomari and her dog Stella take a break from their walk around Riley Lake Park last week. Photos by Gretchen Haynes
Fallen leaves on a picnic table at Riley Lake Park.
While chronicling the fall scenery at Riley Lake Park last week, Eden Prairie Local News (EPLN) photographer Gretchen Haynes, using her iPhone 14 Pro Max, encountered a poignant moment amid the natural beauty.
Haynes often turns to her iPhone, valuing its convenience. She makes a point of using it several times per week to ensure comfort and to capture the best photos.
“After all, I always have my iPhone,” Haynes said. “I do not always have my Sony camera!”
During her visit, she photographed a 10-year-old golden retriever named Stella with her owner, Isomi Tomari of Minnetrista. They paused their walk at the park for the photo.
Unfortunately, Stella’s time is drawing to a close.
Tomari said Stella had an amputation a year ago due to cancer, which left her a tripod.
“She had chemotherapy shortly after the amputation; however, we found out that her cancer has spread to her lungs,” Tomari wrote in a text. “That is why I said her life is coming to the end soon. She is slowing down quite a bit but is still loving to go to Lake Riley Park and Miller Park!!”
A bicyclist rides along Minnesota River Bluffs LRT Regional Trail near Riley Lake Park in Eden Prairie.