For the past few weeks I've been aching to hike up to a fire tower near by. The path isn't too bad, but I've had some issues with my knee preventing me from any steep hikes. So today I drove the 45 minutes to the trail head.
Here there's barely a dusting of snow. The more I traveled north though, the more accumulation there was. When I finally turned onto the dirt road taking me the 7 miles down to the trailhead I felt like I was driving at home, 20 mph, and in the middle of the road. There was probably about 6 inches on the road, and being dirt it was just compacted snow.
It was a bit nerve-wracking, looking at my gas gauge reading a quarter tank, knowing I was in the middle of nowhere. I figured I may not be able to hike the path, but I at least wanted to try.
Finally crunching through the snow into the parking lot at the trail I felt excited. Getting out of the car the snow was halfway up my shins! Thankfully I put my long underwear on under my jeans, and brought a hat and gloves, so I was all prepared to go. I strapped my camera case over my back, locked up the car, and hit the trail.
To find the trail I just followed the tracks of the hikers in front of me. Actually, without those it would've taken me a good half-hour just to find it! About 100 yards into the path there was a small registration booth, pretty typical for trails around here. In a pull-down section there's a registration book you sign with your name, address, and phone number, so the police know if anyone is still on the trail.
After signing in I made my way up the path. It's pretty level at the beginning, but that didn't matter. Usually when hiking the paths are rough, with roots and rocks. Imagine that all covered in a foot of powdery snow. I tried following the footsteps of the people who had passed through earlier, but my footing slipped quite a few times making the walk slow and scary. It's like walking blindfolded.
After passing by a picnic bench and fire pit, the trail seemed to peter off. I made my way up the only clear area. The path became increasingly difficult as the incline steepened. At only a half mile into the path I realized it was far too dangerous to be hiking in the snow. I couldn't quite make out the path, and I was having a very difficult time keeping my footing under the slippery conditions.
On my way back down I took many of the pictures below. Now I'm home safe, and about to go take a hot shower! I'm still chilled through!
Hawaii
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Hike Sandstone
Last weekend I wanted to go hiking, and upon the suggestion of a friend, I decided to hike another trail along the river. The pictures below are from the trip. You can start from a few different spots, but I decided to start at the halfway point and hike the northern end of the trail.
It follows the river from an intake, along the penstock, past the power plant, and then onto an island (which is really a peninsula). It was raining throughout, so I kept my hood up, and watched my step, but it was gorgeous!
Finishing up the trail I walked along the road next to the penstock back to my car. I always look forward to these little day trips, because it pulls me from artificial and places me back in the real world.
It follows the river from an intake, along the penstock, past the power plant, and then onto an island (which is really a peninsula). It was raining throughout, so I kept my hood up, and watched my step, but it was gorgeous!
Finishing up the trail I walked along the road next to the penstock back to my car. I always look forward to these little day trips, because it pulls me from artificial and places me back in the real world.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Oh Canada, and hike.
My apologies for not posting stories on my most recent trips. It's been a busy few weeks. In any case...
Oh Canada:
A few weekends ago I traveled to Prescott, Canada to house-sit/visit with a friend. It was a great weekend, you should see some pictures below.
I wish it was legal to stop a car on the bridge so I could take a picture looking down the span, but the customs officers gave me a hard enough time. I know, I know... I just appear to be such a trouble maker (no comments from the peanut gallery, if you please).
Anyway, I had a great time. It was nice to be able to go for a hike in a small town, and walk along the St. Lawrence Seaway for a bit. I have to admit it was cold, so the walk was very short.
Hiking
The following weekend I went on a hike along Stone Valley. It's a 4 mile hike (I believe) along the river. Weaving in and out of the woods, and up and down hills it was a great hike. The trail starts at the power plant/dam in one town, and follows the river downstream.
From the pictures you can see the water was rampant, and there were signs everywhere telling people to stay away from the river, as it rose without warning. It was a gorgeous walk.
Alright, I have more stories, but I'll post more pictures, and then tell the accompanying stories.
Oh Canada:
A few weekends ago I traveled to Prescott, Canada to house-sit/visit with a friend. It was a great weekend, you should see some pictures below.
I wish it was legal to stop a car on the bridge so I could take a picture looking down the span, but the customs officers gave me a hard enough time. I know, I know... I just appear to be such a trouble maker (no comments from the peanut gallery, if you please).
Anyway, I had a great time. It was nice to be able to go for a hike in a small town, and walk along the St. Lawrence Seaway for a bit. I have to admit it was cold, so the walk was very short.
Hiking
The following weekend I went on a hike along Stone Valley. It's a 4 mile hike (I believe) along the river. Weaving in and out of the woods, and up and down hills it was a great hike. The trail starts at the power plant/dam in one town, and follows the river downstream.
From the pictures you can see the water was rampant, and there were signs everywhere telling people to stay away from the river, as it rose without warning. It was a gorgeous walk.
Alright, I have more stories, but I'll post more pictures, and then tell the accompanying stories.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Friday, October 17, 2008
Biking through the cemetery
This past Monday I biked from my place up to a local cemetery. On Sunday I had kayaked past it, and it looked like a gorgeous, calm place, so I thought I'd bike there to check it out. It was about a 6 mile round trip, but it was a gorgeous ride. My camera could not do the changing leaves justice for just how brilliant their colors were.
It wasn't a long trip, though it was mainly hills, which are both fun and a bunch of work. Unfortunately I haven't been able to take any more fun adventures with the start up of work and classes again. Hopefully this weekend.
"I only went out for a walk and finally concluded to stay out till sundown, for going out, I found, was really going in." John Muir
It wasn't a long trip, though it was mainly hills, which are both fun and a bunch of work. Unfortunately I haven't been able to take any more fun adventures with the start up of work and classes again. Hopefully this weekend.
"I only went out for a walk and finally concluded to stay out till sundown, for going out, I found, was really going in." John Muir
Monday, October 13, 2008
Kayaking trip up the river
On day two of my fall recess I decided I really wanted to go kayaking. I placed a phone call down to the local outdoor gear shop "downtown" and they said they were closed doing inventory, but if I came down they'd let me rent a kayak. They were beyond nice. I rented the kayak, one of the store's employees let me borrow a dry bag for my gear (his own personal bag), and another employee helped me carry it down to load it into the river. To top it off, they gave me their cell number to call so when I was done someone could help me carry it back to the store.
The weather was gorgeous; low 70's, bright and sunny, some clouds but not many. Paddling up river I meandered between the many islands. Sometimes there were barriers every so often, most looking to be man made, but there was always a cut-through somewhere.
The river bed is sandy in many places, and usually muddy. The river is very deep in places and extremely shallow in others. Sometimes I got stuck on the sandbars, but with a little maneuvering was able to make it back to deeper water. When I wast stuck on one of the sandbars I looked down to see trails in the sand. The trails reminded me of those made by moonshells off the beaches of Cape Cod. Following one of the paths I found a fresh-water mussel. I picked it up out of the water and it pulled it's foot back inside the shell. Looking around I found at least 3 dozen more. I left them where they were. Not good eats.
The river is spotted with many islands, and I could have spent a few hours exploring. Passing by the shore in one place I noticed a few people walking along the path at what looked to be a cemetery. They said hi and told me it looked like the perfect day for a paddle! I only saw a few others actually out on boats, but the river is wide enough in places to seem like a lake that we never really crossed paths.
Around 500 Canadian geese honked and floated in the river. I heard a few blue jays sqwaking from nearby trees, and saw half a dozen great blue herons, a few in flight with their long slender legs trailing behind them.
It was the perfect day for a paddle. Returning back to land I called up the shop, pulled the kayak back up to dry land, and within a few minutes another worker came and helped me carry it back to the shop. Of course that is a 3 minute walk or so up the main drag downtown, and I can't tell you how many odd stares we received from passers-by.
The weather was gorgeous; low 70's, bright and sunny, some clouds but not many. Paddling up river I meandered between the many islands. Sometimes there were barriers every so often, most looking to be man made, but there was always a cut-through somewhere.
The river bed is sandy in many places, and usually muddy. The river is very deep in places and extremely shallow in others. Sometimes I got stuck on the sandbars, but with a little maneuvering was able to make it back to deeper water. When I wast stuck on one of the sandbars I looked down to see trails in the sand. The trails reminded me of those made by moonshells off the beaches of Cape Cod. Following one of the paths I found a fresh-water mussel. I picked it up out of the water and it pulled it's foot back inside the shell. Looking around I found at least 3 dozen more. I left them where they were. Not good eats.
The river is spotted with many islands, and I could have spent a few hours exploring. Passing by the shore in one place I noticed a few people walking along the path at what looked to be a cemetery. They said hi and told me it looked like the perfect day for a paddle! I only saw a few others actually out on boats, but the river is wide enough in places to seem like a lake that we never really crossed paths.
Around 500 Canadian geese honked and floated in the river. I heard a few blue jays sqwaking from nearby trees, and saw half a dozen great blue herons, a few in flight with their long slender legs trailing behind them.
It was the perfect day for a paddle. Returning back to land I called up the shop, pulled the kayak back up to dry land, and within a few minutes another worker came and helped me carry it back to the shop. Of course that is a 3 minute walk or so up the main drag downtown, and I can't tell you how many odd stares we received from passers-by.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Bike trip
Hello everyone! Today marks day two of my fall break. I decided not to make the trip home for this break, due to my frequent travels home this semester thus far. It's a long drive for just a weekend. So instead I'm staying here just laying low for a weekend. So far it's been an amazing break.
Yesterday I woke and got the urge to go for a bike ride. But not just a bike ride. A 10 mile long bike ride! It was a lot of fun. The path took me to a town 5 miles down the road. The town is situated on the same river, and the entire area is in full fall bloom. For the path back I took a small county route, which took me down a few amazing hills.
A smile was plastered on my face each time I was racing downhill. Of course that smile faded a little when I would have to walk my bike near the top of the other hill...
The entire trip was a blessing. Just as I turned back onto the main drag into town I got a sharp pain in my knee. Thank goodness I was really close to town so if it had continued to bother me I could've just walked my bike. Couldn't walk into any of the main stores though... covered in grease and sweat. Pleasant.
The pictures below are from my trip. Enjoy!
Yesterday I woke and got the urge to go for a bike ride. But not just a bike ride. A 10 mile long bike ride! It was a lot of fun. The path took me to a town 5 miles down the road. The town is situated on the same river, and the entire area is in full fall bloom. For the path back I took a small county route, which took me down a few amazing hills.
A smile was plastered on my face each time I was racing downhill. Of course that smile faded a little when I would have to walk my bike near the top of the other hill...
The entire trip was a blessing. Just as I turned back onto the main drag into town I got a sharp pain in my knee. Thank goodness I was really close to town so if it had continued to bother me I could've just walked my bike. Couldn't walk into any of the main stores though... covered in grease and sweat. Pleasant.
The pictures below are from my trip. Enjoy!
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Grandma
This past Friday my maternal grandmother passed away, and I made the trip home for the funeral. I know my blog is typically about my experiences with nature, and I will return to that soon, but I felt I should express a bit about my grandmother, and about her funeral.
Sitting here now in this library, thinking upon my grandmother, there is one clear image that comes to mind. It is a smile she gave which said simultaneously "I love you" and "I know you're a devilish little one, and you're going to cause trouble", or more typically "I love you" and "I'm a devilish little one, and I'm going to cause trouble". Grandma had that look down pat, and I was on the receiving end of it numerous times.
Even as her sight weakened, those blue eyes pierced through my heart every time, and looking in to them I could see her feelings. The excitement and joy when I arrived at her front door for a visit. The impish quality the crinkled corners gave her, just before she said something hilarious. The feigned shock, which was really pride, when she was retold humorous stories of our days. My favorite was the mock innocence with a smile when she tried to pretend she was not up to any mischief. Although toward the end her eyes told a sadder story, I only really remember the times Grandma's eyes sparkled. She had the ability to make you feel completely loved, with just a look.
Grandma would give me the "you'd better not" smile right now, but I think it is important that you see the humor she had. When Grandma was living in a condo she had a first alert button, and it usually remained hung on her walker. One day she was out in the garden working, and must have accidently pushed the button. The call center tried talking to her on the speaker in her house, but as she was outside, she didn't hear them. So the call center sent over a police officer to check on her. When the police officer explained why he was there, she said "Well if I knew they'd send over cute police officers like you, I'd push it more often!"
I've been blessed to have some amazing grandparents, and be thoroughly loved by them. I loved being reminded that she was thinking about me, and knowing I loved her. Grandma liked to reuse cards, or create her own from old cards, and it always warmed my heart to see her handwriting on a letter in my mailbox. Even if it was just a few words, she always managed to make me feel loved and warm, hundreds of miles away.
On my drive home for the funeral it rained heavily, and at times I couldn't tell if my vision was blurry from the downpour, or from my own tears. Although Grandma's passing was blessing for her as her health had declined in the last few years, it was still hard to imagine, and hard to accept. When I was told the news I was sitting in a library like this, and although I had been waiting for the phone call I still had not prepared myself for the overwhelming sense of loss that overcame me.
With the core of me I know my grandmother still lives in my heart, just as she always will in the hearts of those who loved her. She touched so many of us, extending her gift of love beyond her family, to her friends, and anyone who knew her. The greatest honor I hope to have one day is to know I've loved someone, and made someone feel as loved, as my Grandma did for me.
This blog post is much harder to write than any of the others. Right after the funeral I had to hit the road to get back up here. I've missed two days of work, and had a great deal to catch up on. Taking this time to think about my grandma has caused my throat to ache, and tears to well just before tumbling down my face.
Thank you Grandma; for loving me and for always encouraging me to be an imp. I miss you, and I love you a great deal.
Sitting here now in this library, thinking upon my grandmother, there is one clear image that comes to mind. It is a smile she gave which said simultaneously "I love you" and "I know you're a devilish little one, and you're going to cause trouble", or more typically "I love you" and "I'm a devilish little one, and I'm going to cause trouble". Grandma had that look down pat, and I was on the receiving end of it numerous times.
Even as her sight weakened, those blue eyes pierced through my heart every time, and looking in to them I could see her feelings. The excitement and joy when I arrived at her front door for a visit. The impish quality the crinkled corners gave her, just before she said something hilarious. The feigned shock, which was really pride, when she was retold humorous stories of our days. My favorite was the mock innocence with a smile when she tried to pretend she was not up to any mischief. Although toward the end her eyes told a sadder story, I only really remember the times Grandma's eyes sparkled. She had the ability to make you feel completely loved, with just a look.
Grandma would give me the "you'd better not" smile right now, but I think it is important that you see the humor she had. When Grandma was living in a condo she had a first alert button, and it usually remained hung on her walker. One day she was out in the garden working, and must have accidently pushed the button. The call center tried talking to her on the speaker in her house, but as she was outside, she didn't hear them. So the call center sent over a police officer to check on her. When the police officer explained why he was there, she said "Well if I knew they'd send over cute police officers like you, I'd push it more often!"
I've been blessed to have some amazing grandparents, and be thoroughly loved by them. I loved being reminded that she was thinking about me, and knowing I loved her. Grandma liked to reuse cards, or create her own from old cards, and it always warmed my heart to see her handwriting on a letter in my mailbox. Even if it was just a few words, she always managed to make me feel loved and warm, hundreds of miles away.
On my drive home for the funeral it rained heavily, and at times I couldn't tell if my vision was blurry from the downpour, or from my own tears. Although Grandma's passing was blessing for her as her health had declined in the last few years, it was still hard to imagine, and hard to accept. When I was told the news I was sitting in a library like this, and although I had been waiting for the phone call I still had not prepared myself for the overwhelming sense of loss that overcame me.
With the core of me I know my grandmother still lives in my heart, just as she always will in the hearts of those who loved her. She touched so many of us, extending her gift of love beyond her family, to her friends, and anyone who knew her. The greatest honor I hope to have one day is to know I've loved someone, and made someone feel as loved, as my Grandma did for me.
This blog post is much harder to write than any of the others. Right after the funeral I had to hit the road to get back up here. I've missed two days of work, and had a great deal to catch up on. Taking this time to think about my grandma has caused my throat to ache, and tears to well just before tumbling down my face.
Thank you Grandma; for loving me and for always encouraging me to be an imp. I miss you, and I love you a great deal.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Kayaking trip through the lakes
Dad had his GPS on the boats with us, so this is the read-out from the GPS of our kayaking trip through the 5 different lakes. Enjoy!!
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Thoughts
Walking to work this morning I found myself shrinking away from the fine mist-like rain falling upon my windbreaker. With every drop I pulled closer to my core, trying to remove myself from the cold shower. No matter how hard I tried, I could not prevent the rain from landing upon me. It seemed ridiculous to keep trying. So instead, I walked as I would in the sun, face tilted upwards slightly, the hint of a smile pulling at the corners of my mouth, each step filled with purpose and direction. With each inch forward I found my demeanor changing, until I went from being cold and withdrawn, to embracing and enjoying an unexpected bath. It is amazing how one's attitude effects one's experience.
I just thought I'd share this experience with you all.
I just thought I'd share this experience with you all.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Dinner
This evening I joined some friends from church for a dinner at a church members home. The home is on a lake, and I spent the entire time in the grasp of a three year old. As we traveled around the home she asked me to take pictures of flowers. Those are in the above post.
Waterfalls
In order to continue my exploration of the Adirondacks it the surrounding North Country, I'm going to try and go see all the waterfalls in St. Lawrence County, the first of which I revisited last Monday. A friend from school and I went to go explore Allen Falls. The "parking lot" is a gravel pull-off just off a side country road. The pathway down to the falls starts as just a break in the knee-high wildflowers. We traveled through the woods, following the hints of the river next to us, and the sounds towards its apex (the zenith holdy-uppy thing, Hannah). We climbed all the way down to the bottom, and back around. It's a gorgeous area. This is just the first of many waterfalls I'll be exploring, so please enjoy!
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
A weekend in the Adirondacks Days 2 and 3
Good morning all! Again, my apologies for the delay in the story. It has been a very hectic week. I have a half hour break at the moment, so I thought I'd attempt to post more about this past weekend.
On the evening on Day 1, Mom and Dad dropped me off at the Boat Livery, where they rented me a single kayak. I paddled the kayak through the lake back to our campsite. It was a much longer trip than I expected, but it was a lot of fun to explore. The last time I was at this lake my siblings and I with Dad swam to a few islands within it. When I reached the bay our campsite was on I just kept looking for my parents' kayaks, and instead saw them bundled in sweaters and warm blankets in seats by the water with binoculars. I made some funny faces for my father, knowing he could see me through his pair.
On the morning of Day 2, after some absolutely delicious blueberry pancakes, we headed out for a long kayaking trip. The trip would take us through 5 lakes, with 2 river/creek passages, 1 connection path through water lilies, 1 very long portage/hike, and 1 short hike. We would end up in the lake we started in.
The first lake was Rollins Pond, home to the Rollins Pond campsites. The lake is very open, and you can see (what I think is) Mt. Azure in the background. There are quite a few islands and rocks in the lake. At one tip of the lake there is a hidden path, connecting Rollins to Floodwood Pond. This little stream/creek has to be portaged in low water levels, but we were able to stay in our kayaks.
While approaching this cut-through mom and dad spotted a group of immature mergansers through their binocs. There were over a dozen of them! We've never seen that many mergansers before, and certainly not young ones. These little guys played leap frog with us through the creek, at times skirting past us so quickly it was almost as if they were running on the water.
To maneuver a kayak down the stream, at times you have to place your paddle parallel to your boat, grab on to a nearby boulder and turn the kayak by hand. The creek is not much wider than the length of one of the shorter kayaks, so there's no turning around, plus the current moves you along away from Rollins. At the middle point of this path there's a fallen pine tree, with a branch free underpass only about the kayak's width wide. I leaned back to lay flat on my kayak, and the tree just barely missed the bill of my ball cap.
There are campsites on the shores of all of the lakes we went to which are boat access only. The lakes are nearly untouched by man, and extremely peaceful. In Floodwood we took our time, slowly making our way across its length, listening to blue jays and a kingfisher; watching the sun dance off our wake.
At one point mom came up on my right side, and dad joined us on my left. I pulled my feet out of my kayak, laid on my back, and held on to both their kayaks and they paddled forward. The tendon in my right elbow kept rubbing over the bone as I paddled, making it painful. The bond as we moved forward as one unit was more than just my arms holding them close. There's something about the friendship that develops between a grown child and their parents. I'm blessed to share this warm friendship with both of my parents.
After making our way through Floodwood, we found the long stream that connects it to Little Square Pond. If you didn't know where it was, you probably wouldn't find it. It is in a hidden corner, its mouth blending in with the rest of the shore. The water is rather shallow opening to the creek, and every long, yellow-green weed bends pointing out the direction you're to go, persuaded by the current.
The creek connecting Floodwood and Little Square passes underneath a wooden bridge at one point. Dad climbed out of his kayak and stood on the bridge taking pictures as mom and I paddled underneath it. In Little Square we wanted to stop to eat our lunch, but were unable to find an open campsite. You're not supposed to traipse through the surrounding woods, unless you're on a designated campsite or trail.
Little Square empties into Fish Creek to the south, which we took to find a small passageway through the reeds to Copperas Pond. Mom and Dad were ahead of me by a good distance, so as I paddled through the lily pads I saw Dad follow Mom into what appeared to be grass, and slowly disappeared. As I approached I realized it was just a small path, through what appeared to be a small break in the land. The path makes its way through high grasses, and is barely two kayaks width wide. It opens up to Copperas Pond, a hideaway surrounded by tall coniferous trees.
As Mom and I rested near to the mouth of the path, Dad explored the opposite shore and found an unoccupied campsite. Unpacking our lunches (DELICIOUS!), as well as a blanket and our books, the three of us lay on the blanket, Mom's head on Dad's stomach, mine on Mom's stomach, reading. It was a beautiful sunny day, and in the shade it felt comfortable. After a few chapters, we packed everything up again, took some pictures, and jumped back in the kayaks.
At the end of Copperas Pond, where we pulled the boats out, we saw a few loons, only later realizing it was a mother loon, and at least 3 of her baby loons. It was amazing to see her dive down, the little ones look down into the water looking for her, come back up, while she stayed down.
To get from Copperas Pond to Whey Pond (the next on our trip), you have to portage through about a 10 - 15 minute hike through the woods. Portage, from the French verb meaning "to carry", though more appropriately "to strain your arm muscles carrying a heavy kayak through the woods, until you're pretty sure your one arm is a good 6 inches longer than the other one".
Dad and Mom have wheels they attach to their kayaks, so as Dad took the first kayak through the path, Mom and I grabbed the paddles of the other two, threw a dry-bag in the seat of mine, and together carried the kayak through the woods. We stopped quite a few times to switch arms. It took us about 15 minutes to get to Whey Pond, at which point Mom and Dad went back to get the last kayak, while I sat with the other two. Whey Pond was cool, clear, with a sandy bottom. While I waited I took pictures of anything I found interesting.
As a reward for our long haul, we had crackers, raisins and craisins when Mom and Dad arrived back, and then jumped into the lake for a quick swim. Crossing Whey Pond was the most difficult, at least for me. We were fighting the wind, and by this point my elbow was killing me with every stroke. Arriving at the far end of Whey we again had to portage the kayaks, though this time the walk is only about 2 minutes, across a road, and into Rollins Pond again, by the Boat Livery.
My kayak was due back to the Boat Livery, so while I sat on the beach with a blanket and my camera, Mom and Dad kayaked back to the campsite, Dad picked up the car, and came to get me. We had to go into Tupper to get some more blueberries for pancakes the next morning.
When we arrived back at the campsite Mom had the hot water waiting for us, which we used to pour over our heads to wash our hair. Let me tell you, there is no better feeling in the world!
After a few bowls of delicious chili around the campfire, Mom, Dad, and I made our way down to the lakeshore, stood together our with arms wrapped around each other's waists, and looked up at the evening sky. It was filled to overflowing with stars, and they gleamed so brightly that their reflection could be seen on the placid surface of Rollins. It was awe-inspiring, and humbling to stand there, enveloped in the beauty of nature, seeing that in the dark of night there were still pinpoints of light shining unabashedly.
The next morning, after another delicious blueberry pancake breakfast, with maple cream from Hannah's farm, and a decent shower at the shower house, I took off to head back to school.
I miss it... the evening sky, the smell of the campfire, the taste of food after a long day, the burn of muscles working after kayaking, the cool blanket of diving into the water, the warmth of the sun on my face. I miss being that close to my parents, knowing they are there, being able to just sit and talk with them.
In order to keep this feeling, to keep exploring nature, I'm going to try and make my way visiting the waterfalls in a few of the counties up here with my friends, for which I'll have more stories and pictures!
On the evening on Day 1, Mom and Dad dropped me off at the Boat Livery, where they rented me a single kayak. I paddled the kayak through the lake back to our campsite. It was a much longer trip than I expected, but it was a lot of fun to explore. The last time I was at this lake my siblings and I with Dad swam to a few islands within it. When I reached the bay our campsite was on I just kept looking for my parents' kayaks, and instead saw them bundled in sweaters and warm blankets in seats by the water with binoculars. I made some funny faces for my father, knowing he could see me through his pair.
On the morning of Day 2, after some absolutely delicious blueberry pancakes, we headed out for a long kayaking trip. The trip would take us through 5 lakes, with 2 river/creek passages, 1 connection path through water lilies, 1 very long portage/hike, and 1 short hike. We would end up in the lake we started in.
The first lake was Rollins Pond, home to the Rollins Pond campsites. The lake is very open, and you can see (what I think is) Mt. Azure in the background. There are quite a few islands and rocks in the lake. At one tip of the lake there is a hidden path, connecting Rollins to Floodwood Pond. This little stream/creek has to be portaged in low water levels, but we were able to stay in our kayaks.
While approaching this cut-through mom and dad spotted a group of immature mergansers through their binocs. There were over a dozen of them! We've never seen that many mergansers before, and certainly not young ones. These little guys played leap frog with us through the creek, at times skirting past us so quickly it was almost as if they were running on the water.
To maneuver a kayak down the stream, at times you have to place your paddle parallel to your boat, grab on to a nearby boulder and turn the kayak by hand. The creek is not much wider than the length of one of the shorter kayaks, so there's no turning around, plus the current moves you along away from Rollins. At the middle point of this path there's a fallen pine tree, with a branch free underpass only about the kayak's width wide. I leaned back to lay flat on my kayak, and the tree just barely missed the bill of my ball cap.
There are campsites on the shores of all of the lakes we went to which are boat access only. The lakes are nearly untouched by man, and extremely peaceful. In Floodwood we took our time, slowly making our way across its length, listening to blue jays and a kingfisher; watching the sun dance off our wake.
At one point mom came up on my right side, and dad joined us on my left. I pulled my feet out of my kayak, laid on my back, and held on to both their kayaks and they paddled forward. The tendon in my right elbow kept rubbing over the bone as I paddled, making it painful. The bond as we moved forward as one unit was more than just my arms holding them close. There's something about the friendship that develops between a grown child and their parents. I'm blessed to share this warm friendship with both of my parents.
After making our way through Floodwood, we found the long stream that connects it to Little Square Pond. If you didn't know where it was, you probably wouldn't find it. It is in a hidden corner, its mouth blending in with the rest of the shore. The water is rather shallow opening to the creek, and every long, yellow-green weed bends pointing out the direction you're to go, persuaded by the current.
The creek connecting Floodwood and Little Square passes underneath a wooden bridge at one point. Dad climbed out of his kayak and stood on the bridge taking pictures as mom and I paddled underneath it. In Little Square we wanted to stop to eat our lunch, but were unable to find an open campsite. You're not supposed to traipse through the surrounding woods, unless you're on a designated campsite or trail.
Little Square empties into Fish Creek to the south, which we took to find a small passageway through the reeds to Copperas Pond. Mom and Dad were ahead of me by a good distance, so as I paddled through the lily pads I saw Dad follow Mom into what appeared to be grass, and slowly disappeared. As I approached I realized it was just a small path, through what appeared to be a small break in the land. The path makes its way through high grasses, and is barely two kayaks width wide. It opens up to Copperas Pond, a hideaway surrounded by tall coniferous trees.
As Mom and I rested near to the mouth of the path, Dad explored the opposite shore and found an unoccupied campsite. Unpacking our lunches (DELICIOUS!), as well as a blanket and our books, the three of us lay on the blanket, Mom's head on Dad's stomach, mine on Mom's stomach, reading. It was a beautiful sunny day, and in the shade it felt comfortable. After a few chapters, we packed everything up again, took some pictures, and jumped back in the kayaks.
At the end of Copperas Pond, where we pulled the boats out, we saw a few loons, only later realizing it was a mother loon, and at least 3 of her baby loons. It was amazing to see her dive down, the little ones look down into the water looking for her, come back up, while she stayed down.
To get from Copperas Pond to Whey Pond (the next on our trip), you have to portage through about a 10 - 15 minute hike through the woods. Portage, from the French verb meaning "to carry", though more appropriately "to strain your arm muscles carrying a heavy kayak through the woods, until you're pretty sure your one arm is a good 6 inches longer than the other one".
Dad and Mom have wheels they attach to their kayaks, so as Dad took the first kayak through the path, Mom and I grabbed the paddles of the other two, threw a dry-bag in the seat of mine, and together carried the kayak through the woods. We stopped quite a few times to switch arms. It took us about 15 minutes to get to Whey Pond, at which point Mom and Dad went back to get the last kayak, while I sat with the other two. Whey Pond was cool, clear, with a sandy bottom. While I waited I took pictures of anything I found interesting.
As a reward for our long haul, we had crackers, raisins and craisins when Mom and Dad arrived back, and then jumped into the lake for a quick swim. Crossing Whey Pond was the most difficult, at least for me. We were fighting the wind, and by this point my elbow was killing me with every stroke. Arriving at the far end of Whey we again had to portage the kayaks, though this time the walk is only about 2 minutes, across a road, and into Rollins Pond again, by the Boat Livery.
My kayak was due back to the Boat Livery, so while I sat on the beach with a blanket and my camera, Mom and Dad kayaked back to the campsite, Dad picked up the car, and came to get me. We had to go into Tupper to get some more blueberries for pancakes the next morning.
When we arrived back at the campsite Mom had the hot water waiting for us, which we used to pour over our heads to wash our hair. Let me tell you, there is no better feeling in the world!
After a few bowls of delicious chili around the campfire, Mom, Dad, and I made our way down to the lakeshore, stood together our with arms wrapped around each other's waists, and looked up at the evening sky. It was filled to overflowing with stars, and they gleamed so brightly that their reflection could be seen on the placid surface of Rollins. It was awe-inspiring, and humbling to stand there, enveloped in the beauty of nature, seeing that in the dark of night there were still pinpoints of light shining unabashedly.
The next morning, after another delicious blueberry pancake breakfast, with maple cream from Hannah's farm, and a decent shower at the shower house, I took off to head back to school.
I miss it... the evening sky, the smell of the campfire, the taste of food after a long day, the burn of muscles working after kayaking, the cool blanket of diving into the water, the warmth of the sun on my face. I miss being that close to my parents, knowing they are there, being able to just sit and talk with them.
In order to keep this feeling, to keep exploring nature, I'm going to try and make my way visiting the waterfalls in a few of the counties up here with my friends, for which I'll have more stories and pictures!
Monday, September 1, 2008
A weekend in the Adirondacks Day 1
Good morning everyone! I have so many stories, I better start at the beginning. When we parted ways last time (and by we I mean my computer and I), I was headed to start my Labor Day weekend camping with my parents.
Day 1:
After classes and work on Friday I drove to see Hannah, in order to deliver the ice cream pie and to say goodbye. She left to go back to school this weekend, so I won't be seeing her for quite some time. In true fashion, she and I hung out in the registration booth for an hour, at the campsite I was at for those two weeks. We always have fun, no matter what ruckus we're causing, and this time was no different. I hadn't seen her since we checked out, and it was wonderful to reconnect. I had to hit the road though, as my parents were expecting me, so we hugged warmly and parted ways.
Calling my parents to let them know I was on the road they asked me if I would mind meeting them in Paul Smiths, NY. I'm including a map so those of you not from this area have some idea where I mean. It's all small towns so, I wouldn't be surprised...
View Larger Map
The drive to Paul Smiths was very interesting. My father texted me directions (don't be too surprised, I'm sure he had mom do the actual texting), but there was a small hiccup in the path, causing quite a few phone calls between the caravans. We met at the Adirondack Visitor Interpretive Center, a gorgeous location for hiking in the woods. I'm including the map for there as well. We took the Heron Marsh Trail, to the Shingle Mill Falls Trail, up to the Forest Ecology Trail.
All three of us had cameras, so we moseyed along stopping to take pictures frequently. The trails pass in and out of the woods, at times crossing over the marshy ponds with long dock-like bridges and boardwalks. It was beautiful. I'm guessing here, but I'm pretty sure the mountain you can see in the photos is Mt. Azure, with the fire tower atop it. While on our hike we managed to find dozens of mushroom/fungi species growing throughout. I took pictures of quite a few, but it was just amazing, the different plant life.
Along the trail we stopped to read from the pamphlets and Mom found the word "Mugwump" which is the Native American name for Bitterns, a kind of wading bird. Mom says that will be the name of one of her grandchildren "Mugwump, get over here!" Later during the weekend we came across the town of Wawbeek, which made mom declare one of the grandkids should be named that. For those of you following along at home Mom and Dad have no grandchildren, nor are there any currently on the way so...
After finishing our hikes we popped the hatch on the car, and sat in the back feasting on grapes, fresh veggies, crackers and cheese. A delicious snack. Driving in tandem we made are way back to camp to start dinner. Unfortunately our gorgeous bonfire did not agree with our eating schedule and it took a good three hours just to get the food to cook, but let me tell you... at 9:30pm sweet corn, steak, fresh veggies, and potatoes taste absolutely delicious!
While drifting off that evening, snuggled up in my sleeping bag, Mom and Dad called my attention to the loon calling in the lake. Amazing sound. A little less than amazing when it continued at 4am...
I'll continue with the other days in a few hours...
Day 1:
After classes and work on Friday I drove to see Hannah, in order to deliver the ice cream pie and to say goodbye. She left to go back to school this weekend, so I won't be seeing her for quite some time. In true fashion, she and I hung out in the registration booth for an hour, at the campsite I was at for those two weeks. We always have fun, no matter what ruckus we're causing, and this time was no different. I hadn't seen her since we checked out, and it was wonderful to reconnect. I had to hit the road though, as my parents were expecting me, so we hugged warmly and parted ways.
Calling my parents to let them know I was on the road they asked me if I would mind meeting them in Paul Smiths, NY. I'm including a map so those of you not from this area have some idea where I mean. It's all small towns so, I wouldn't be surprised...
View Larger Map
The drive to Paul Smiths was very interesting. My father texted me directions (don't be too surprised, I'm sure he had mom do the actual texting), but there was a small hiccup in the path, causing quite a few phone calls between the caravans. We met at the Adirondack Visitor Interpretive Center, a gorgeous location for hiking in the woods. I'm including the map for there as well. We took the Heron Marsh Trail, to the Shingle Mill Falls Trail, up to the Forest Ecology Trail.
All three of us had cameras, so we moseyed along stopping to take pictures frequently. The trails pass in and out of the woods, at times crossing over the marshy ponds with long dock-like bridges and boardwalks. It was beautiful. I'm guessing here, but I'm pretty sure the mountain you can see in the photos is Mt. Azure, with the fire tower atop it. While on our hike we managed to find dozens of mushroom/fungi species growing throughout. I took pictures of quite a few, but it was just amazing, the different plant life.
Along the trail we stopped to read from the pamphlets and Mom found the word "Mugwump" which is the Native American name for Bitterns, a kind of wading bird. Mom says that will be the name of one of her grandchildren "Mugwump, get over here!" Later during the weekend we came across the town of Wawbeek, which made mom declare one of the grandkids should be named that. For those of you following along at home Mom and Dad have no grandchildren, nor are there any currently on the way so...
After finishing our hikes we popped the hatch on the car, and sat in the back feasting on grapes, fresh veggies, crackers and cheese. A delicious snack. Driving in tandem we made are way back to camp to start dinner. Unfortunately our gorgeous bonfire did not agree with our eating schedule and it took a good three hours just to get the food to cook, but let me tell you... at 9:30pm sweet corn, steak, fresh veggies, and potatoes taste absolutely delicious!
While drifting off that evening, snuggled up in my sleeping bag, Mom and Dad called my attention to the loon calling in the lake. Amazing sound. A little less than amazing when it continued at 4am...
I'll continue with the other days in a few hours...
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Weekend...
In a few hours I'll be heading back to the Adirondacks to camp for a few days, so soon... more pictures and stories!
Until then... a picture of the pie I made to return Hannah's pie plate to her!
A delicious small kitchen creation of crumbled oreo crust, vanilla ice cream, and drizzled peanut butter. Yummy (I hope)!!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
The last few days
First, I apologize for the great delay between posts. The semester started yesterday, and it's been a bit busy leading up to it. Last Saturday I drove to see my parents where they are camping for a while in the Adirondacks. Their campsite is beautiful, and right on a lake. Absolutely gorgeous. Unfortunately I've been under the weather since Friday, and classes were starting, so I didn't stay for more than a few hours. But I managed some kayak time, and some swimming time in the lake!
This weekend I'll head back there for some more adventures, and hopefully a great deal more swimming and kayaking, and pictures! I've heard the stars shine off of the lake at night. I can't wait to try and capture that.
I must say I've missed camping a great deal. It's not the same coming back to my place now, as it was when I was camping. I can't just bike up to the registration booth to hang out with Hannah and cause a ruckus. But in any case, there's something that causes a great deal of peace in my heart, being there. Partially for the area, the ambience, the stars, the birds, the people, the new friends, the water nearby, the biking. I'm going to try and continue biking every day, because it gives me that peace. And taking nature pictures every day. I need those too, and that time to thoroughly immerse myself in nature. I love that.
Well I've got to do some work before class tonight. Today's quote has a lot to do with missing places, people, and feelings:
Gone - flitted away,
Taken the stars from the night and the sun
From the day!
Gone, and a cloud in my heart.
-Alfred Tennyson
This weekend I'll head back there for some more adventures, and hopefully a great deal more swimming and kayaking, and pictures! I've heard the stars shine off of the lake at night. I can't wait to try and capture that.
I must say I've missed camping a great deal. It's not the same coming back to my place now, as it was when I was camping. I can't just bike up to the registration booth to hang out with Hannah and cause a ruckus. But in any case, there's something that causes a great deal of peace in my heart, being there. Partially for the area, the ambience, the stars, the birds, the people, the new friends, the water nearby, the biking. I'm going to try and continue biking every day, because it gives me that peace. And taking nature pictures every day. I need those too, and that time to thoroughly immerse myself in nature. I love that.
Well I've got to do some work before class tonight. Today's quote has a lot to do with missing places, people, and feelings:
Gone - flitted away,
Taken the stars from the night and the sun
From the day!
Gone, and a cloud in my heart.
-Alfred Tennyson
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Thursday, August 21, 2008
The final days
An hour ago my parents and I finished tearing down the campsite, or as my father said "we have vacated our site". It's been a few days since I posted, so I'll fill you in on the happenings since.
Tuesday afternoon I left work and returned to the campsite. I was surprisingly exhausted, so after changing out of my dress clothes I climbed into the sleeping bags and took a long nap. Without anything to eat in the cooler, I took Hannah's suggestion and went to a small diner/cafe up the main drag a bit. It's a small place; every head turned to look at me when I came in the door, and was packed with locals. Good food, and a great price, so I didn't mind eating by myself. Okay I did a little bit, but I was easily distracted by a straw wrapper begging to be folded into an origami crane.
Afterwards I drove back to the campsite, and curled up with Eragon. A while later I heard my name being called, so I sat up to find Hannah at my door with homemade fresh raspberry pie! What a welcomed surprise! We were just about to have some when I asked her why her car lights were on. She forgot her sister was in the car! The three of us sat around the table inside the camper, eating pie, laughing, and telling stories. It was a wonderful few hours. After they left I couldn't help but still feel warm inside, even though it was bitterly cold outside. When Mom and Dad found out that Hannah had brought me pie they asked why she didn't just wait one night until they were there! So Hannah and I planned to make a pie for them.
Yesterday (Wednesday) evening I went over to Hannah's home, met her family, and had dinner with them. I had the most delicious sweet corn I've ever tasted! It was literally picked off the stalk, and cooked immediately, as Hannah's family has a farm, where they grow sweet corn, cucumbers, zucchini, and yellow squash.
I'm going to relay as much of this story as I can, if only to reflect the way my heart still is lifted by the time I spent there. Also, by documenting it I can better remember and cherish my time last night. When we sat down for dinner, holding hands for grace, everyone went around the table to say one thing they were thankful for. I was so touched when they said they were thankful for me. I was so thankful for them, their hospitality and friendship, and the gift of their amazing daughter. It was a wonderful feeling.
Throughout the meal we told stories back and forth, and the kitchen filled to overflowing with laughter and warmth. It felt as if even the darkest corner of the night could be touched by this joy. After a quick trip down to Hannah's grandmother's to get some Crisco, we started our pie making business. We made the pie crusts from scratch, so next Thanksgiving... watch out!!
We made two blackberry pies, and one raspberry, all from fresh (well frozen after being picked) berries. When it came time to roll out our crusts, Hannah put a ton of flour on the table. The younger kids came in, after doing chores, and I teased a couple of them with flour on my finger tips. They went off to bed, while we continued cooking.
While we baked Molly and Ira (two of Hannah's siblings) sat with us, and we watched the movie Enchanted. I'll have to watch it again sometime to catch all the jokes, but we had a blast singing lines (I didn't sing, I just listened), and repeating funny parts. Actually most of the time when Hannah would wander out of the room she'd be singing the same song. I know that first line really well... the rest is a bit fuzzy.
The flour from our rolling area (Hannah imagine the hand signal here) got everywhere... though it probably wasn't helped by the fact I put flour directly on Hannah's face, and she did the same to me! We are trouble.
Of course with each berry filling we made, it needed to be taste-tested. For the blackberry pies I had my hands in the dough, kneading it, so I couldn't pick up my own spoon. Hannah kindly helped, as she did later with this delicious concoction of melted peanut butter, chocolate, and bananas. She was too kind though; she might have well smashed either one of those things into my face!
At one point while two of the pies were in the oven Hannah and I ran outside with a blanket and my camera, to lay on the ground and take pictures of the stars. I knew only a few key constellations. Hannah had been a TA for an Astronomy class, so she told me stories and pointed out the stars. We saw quite a few shooting stars, though they were dim, and brief. It was a beautiful, though freezing, night. After a while we each grabbed half the blanket to pull over ourselves. As we lay there I took a few star pictures, which I will post later. Hannah teased me, because I would start whispering when the camera was taking a pictures, thinking that would help the "don't move it" mode.
It was an incredible night, filled with so much warmth and laughter. My sides hurt a bit from cracking up. After spending nearly two weeks without a family around me, it was nice to share in a part of theirs. The spoils of our labor provided a very delicious blackberry pie for breakfast this morning!
After "breakfast" this morning, Mom, Dad, and I drove into town to see my room, drop some things off, grab lunch at one of our favorite spots in town, and then head out to a used bookstore out of town. This is the most amazing bookstore I've ever visited, and I love going there.
The front walk is a wooden platform, serving as a covered walkway for an ivy like plant growing on it. Today we found out that plant is hops! Dad thinks that's a wonderful idea, and I do believe he may try planting some at home. The bookstore is a home, and every square inch of it is covered in books. Bookshelves have been built out of thin slabs of wood, and the bookstore has over 50,000 books in it!
Mom recently cleaned out some of our bookshelves at home, and we gave them 3 boxes of books. Mom said it's justification for buying more books. We each bought a couple; I picked up Euclid's "The Elements" Vol 1 & 2. For those of you who aren't math nerds in the audience, I am a proud math geek! I'd hang a poster in my room that had thousands of digits of π on it. I tell corny math jokes (What did i say to π? Be rational. How did π retort? Get real!) So this book suits my geeky nature, and is just a fun thing (for me) to read through. In town I also picked up the 2nd book in the Eragon series, Eldest.
Well after packing up the camper, and having dad "lose" his phone (he left it under the trailer, thank goodness we hadn't moved it yet), we parted ways, as they head off for a week and a half camping in another section of the Adirondacks.
I already miss being at the campsite; the cool nights, the nightly show of stars, the smell of the campfire, my blue jay neighbors, the deer who greet me on my walks, Hannah's friendship, the sleeping bag cocoons... I hope to still explore and connect with nature. I just won't be sleeping in it every night.
I've been asked to continue this blog, even though I won't be camping. I will do my best. Hopefully I'll be able to still take adventures and travel around the area visiting great nature sites!
My quote for today is humorous. I've been so blessed by great friends in my life, and I do feel I've made some new ones over the past two weeks, and met some people with beautiful hearts. I am so grateful for that.
“A true friend is someone who thinks that you are a good egg even though he knows that you are slightly cracked” Bernard Meltzer
Tuesday afternoon I left work and returned to the campsite. I was surprisingly exhausted, so after changing out of my dress clothes I climbed into the sleeping bags and took a long nap. Without anything to eat in the cooler, I took Hannah's suggestion and went to a small diner/cafe up the main drag a bit. It's a small place; every head turned to look at me when I came in the door, and was packed with locals. Good food, and a great price, so I didn't mind eating by myself. Okay I did a little bit, but I was easily distracted by a straw wrapper begging to be folded into an origami crane.
Afterwards I drove back to the campsite, and curled up with Eragon. A while later I heard my name being called, so I sat up to find Hannah at my door with homemade fresh raspberry pie! What a welcomed surprise! We were just about to have some when I asked her why her car lights were on. She forgot her sister was in the car! The three of us sat around the table inside the camper, eating pie, laughing, and telling stories. It was a wonderful few hours. After they left I couldn't help but still feel warm inside, even though it was bitterly cold outside. When Mom and Dad found out that Hannah had brought me pie they asked why she didn't just wait one night until they were there! So Hannah and I planned to make a pie for them.
Yesterday (Wednesday) evening I went over to Hannah's home, met her family, and had dinner with them. I had the most delicious sweet corn I've ever tasted! It was literally picked off the stalk, and cooked immediately, as Hannah's family has a farm, where they grow sweet corn, cucumbers, zucchini, and yellow squash.
I'm going to relay as much of this story as I can, if only to reflect the way my heart still is lifted by the time I spent there. Also, by documenting it I can better remember and cherish my time last night. When we sat down for dinner, holding hands for grace, everyone went around the table to say one thing they were thankful for. I was so touched when they said they were thankful for me. I was so thankful for them, their hospitality and friendship, and the gift of their amazing daughter. It was a wonderful feeling.
Throughout the meal we told stories back and forth, and the kitchen filled to overflowing with laughter and warmth. It felt as if even the darkest corner of the night could be touched by this joy. After a quick trip down to Hannah's grandmother's to get some Crisco, we started our pie making business. We made the pie crusts from scratch, so next Thanksgiving... watch out!!
We made two blackberry pies, and one raspberry, all from fresh (well frozen after being picked) berries. When it came time to roll out our crusts, Hannah put a ton of flour on the table. The younger kids came in, after doing chores, and I teased a couple of them with flour on my finger tips. They went off to bed, while we continued cooking.
While we baked Molly and Ira (two of Hannah's siblings) sat with us, and we watched the movie Enchanted. I'll have to watch it again sometime to catch all the jokes, but we had a blast singing lines (I didn't sing, I just listened), and repeating funny parts. Actually most of the time when Hannah would wander out of the room she'd be singing the same song. I know that first line really well... the rest is a bit fuzzy.
The flour from our rolling area (Hannah imagine the hand signal here) got everywhere... though it probably wasn't helped by the fact I put flour directly on Hannah's face, and she did the same to me! We are trouble.
Of course with each berry filling we made, it needed to be taste-tested. For the blackberry pies I had my hands in the dough, kneading it, so I couldn't pick up my own spoon. Hannah kindly helped, as she did later with this delicious concoction of melted peanut butter, chocolate, and bananas. She was too kind though; she might have well smashed either one of those things into my face!
At one point while two of the pies were in the oven Hannah and I ran outside with a blanket and my camera, to lay on the ground and take pictures of the stars. I knew only a few key constellations. Hannah had been a TA for an Astronomy class, so she told me stories and pointed out the stars. We saw quite a few shooting stars, though they were dim, and brief. It was a beautiful, though freezing, night. After a while we each grabbed half the blanket to pull over ourselves. As we lay there I took a few star pictures, which I will post later. Hannah teased me, because I would start whispering when the camera was taking a pictures, thinking that would help the "don't move it" mode.
It was an incredible night, filled with so much warmth and laughter. My sides hurt a bit from cracking up. After spending nearly two weeks without a family around me, it was nice to share in a part of theirs. The spoils of our labor provided a very delicious blackberry pie for breakfast this morning!
After "breakfast" this morning, Mom, Dad, and I drove into town to see my room, drop some things off, grab lunch at one of our favorite spots in town, and then head out to a used bookstore out of town. This is the most amazing bookstore I've ever visited, and I love going there.
The front walk is a wooden platform, serving as a covered walkway for an ivy like plant growing on it. Today we found out that plant is hops! Dad thinks that's a wonderful idea, and I do believe he may try planting some at home. The bookstore is a home, and every square inch of it is covered in books. Bookshelves have been built out of thin slabs of wood, and the bookstore has over 50,000 books in it!
Mom recently cleaned out some of our bookshelves at home, and we gave them 3 boxes of books. Mom said it's justification for buying more books. We each bought a couple; I picked up Euclid's "The Elements" Vol 1 & 2. For those of you who aren't math nerds in the audience, I am a proud math geek! I'd hang a poster in my room that had thousands of digits of π on it. I tell corny math jokes (What did i say to π? Be rational. How did π retort? Get real!) So this book suits my geeky nature, and is just a fun thing (for me) to read through. In town I also picked up the 2nd book in the Eragon series, Eldest.
Well after packing up the camper, and having dad "lose" his phone (he left it under the trailer, thank goodness we hadn't moved it yet), we parted ways, as they head off for a week and a half camping in another section of the Adirondacks.
I already miss being at the campsite; the cool nights, the nightly show of stars, the smell of the campfire, my blue jay neighbors, the deer who greet me on my walks, Hannah's friendship, the sleeping bag cocoons... I hope to still explore and connect with nature. I just won't be sleeping in it every night.
I've been asked to continue this blog, even though I won't be camping. I will do my best. Hopefully I'll be able to still take adventures and travel around the area visiting great nature sites!
My quote for today is humorous. I've been so blessed by great friends in my life, and I do feel I've made some new ones over the past two weeks, and met some people with beautiful hearts. I am so grateful for that.
“A true friend is someone who thinks that you are a good egg even though he knows that you are slightly cracked” Bernard Meltzer
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Day Ten
Good morning all! I'm a bit tired at the moment, so please excuse any excess words, or unmanagable sentences. Though to tell this story, I should start at the beginning... where we left off yesterday.
Turning tides- by yours truly
Yesterday afternoon, on an adventurous streak, I took off to find some hidden falls, north of where I am. Scribbled on a post-it I had directions given to me by a friend, and I clasped it in my left hand, while I navigated the roads, looking for all of the landmarks. It wasn't until around 6pm I found the trail, locked up my car, grabbed my camera, and started the hike. The first part of the trail was almost impossible to find; just a dirt path overgrown by wildflowers and plants. Skirting through the chest high brush, I found my way.
A pine ladden floor directed by path, in and out of trees. I surmise this area experienced the micro-bursts which occured near the campsite, due to the massive numbers of full grown trees ripped up, roots and all, and laid down. At times the path was a great mystery. A triplet tree blocked my path; three trunks connected to the same set of roots. To manuever my way through I had to climb over the first fallen tree, under the second, and hurdle the third. I felt a little bit like an army recruit in training. Run, dive, go under the wire, climb the wall...
The path to the falls follows the river from the bridge, to the zenith, down to the base of the falls. The beginning of the path weaves in and out of the forest, allowing hikers to venture out onto the glacial boulders in the river, and then diverge back deeper into the woods. The path splits at one point, one section continuing through narrow valley surrounded by tall pines growing out of the ground at unreal angles. At the end of this path you can climb out upon the large stone outcroppings just at the break of the falls, and stand taking pictures. Moss and the water itself make these rocks a little slippery though; I nearly lost my footing a few times.
Scrambling back to the path, I took the other fork, and found myself climbing up even higher. At this point the path leads you to the base of the falls, but in a mirror to the falls, very steeply. There are a few pictures I took trying to show this. I spent a great deal of the way down on my bum, trying not to slip. Switching tactics, I went down backwards, moving like a climber back and forth over the escarpment, following and grasping roots. At the base, I quickly moved to the rocky beach at the base of the falls to take pictures.
I didn't venture much more, as the sky turned quickly dark, far to early to be related to the sunset. I dashed up the hill again; a feat to say the least. Running along the path, I could barely see. All I could think of was a children's book I remember having read to me as a child. It starts off "We're going on a bear hunt, gonna catch a big one, I'm not scared... can't go over it, can't go under it, gotta go through it...". At the climax of the book the family on the bear hunt find the bear, and the next few pages involve them running back to their house, through all of the obstacles they crossed earlier. That's what I felt I was doing. I jogged through the forest, over the fallen trees, and under a few. When I reached the mouth of the path and I heard the threatening creak and crack of an overhead tree I made a mad dash for my car.
As I unlocked the door and jumped inside large raindrops started to fall on my windshield. With the aid of my local map (thanks Dad!) I found my way to a shortcut that would lead me back to camp. As I drove, I beat the rain out, making my way ahead of the storm front. Stopping only to check in at the campsite, I made it back to camp seeing lightening and thunder follow me. As the rain finally caught up with me, I readied the camper by pulling the canopy down sharply.
The rain was like a flood, and within a few minutes the ground surrounding my campsite was mud. Rain poured off the camper in many places. Lightening would flash, and no more than a few seconds later the thunder rumbled and cracked back. The firework display in the sky was so frequent, only seconds passed between each pair. I'll admit I was a bit frightened. I had to shout to be heard, though you may ask who I was talking to. My security blankets; mom and dad.
Zipping the camper up tight, grabbing my pillow and wrapping it in my raincoat, and securing the canopy I dashed for the car, and drove back to my new place. We made the decision it was probably best I stayed there, seeing as the only change of clothing I had were my pjs, and I was soaked and muddy from the rain. The twenty minute drive was frightening, and I don't think I ever reached the speed limit. Wipers at their highest speed, and still I couldn't see the road. Lightening and thunder continued their symphony, making me jump quite a few times. I tried to capture a few pictures of it, placing my camera upward on the dashboard, clicking everytime the lightening flashed. I did get a few pictures of clouds lit up right after the lightening. I made it back to my new place safely, though my phone died on the way. The storm continued throughout most of the night, waking me up quite a few times when the thunder cracked loudly.
It is currently 55ºF out, and very damp from the storms. I'm happy I stayed in town last night, because goodness knows I would've scared much easier at the camper. I'll head out there this afternoon to check on things, and make sure the camper survived.
I hope you all enjoy the pictures, because even though I was scared, I loved taking them.
Today's quote is a favorite of mine. It's about remembering joy, and staying positive. "Birds sing after a storm; why shouldn't people feel as free to delight in whatever sunlight remains to them?" - Rose Kennedy
Turning tides- by yours truly
Yesterday afternoon, on an adventurous streak, I took off to find some hidden falls, north of where I am. Scribbled on a post-it I had directions given to me by a friend, and I clasped it in my left hand, while I navigated the roads, looking for all of the landmarks. It wasn't until around 6pm I found the trail, locked up my car, grabbed my camera, and started the hike. The first part of the trail was almost impossible to find; just a dirt path overgrown by wildflowers and plants. Skirting through the chest high brush, I found my way.
A pine ladden floor directed by path, in and out of trees. I surmise this area experienced the micro-bursts which occured near the campsite, due to the massive numbers of full grown trees ripped up, roots and all, and laid down. At times the path was a great mystery. A triplet tree blocked my path; three trunks connected to the same set of roots. To manuever my way through I had to climb over the first fallen tree, under the second, and hurdle the third. I felt a little bit like an army recruit in training. Run, dive, go under the wire, climb the wall...
The path to the falls follows the river from the bridge, to the zenith, down to the base of the falls. The beginning of the path weaves in and out of the forest, allowing hikers to venture out onto the glacial boulders in the river, and then diverge back deeper into the woods. The path splits at one point, one section continuing through narrow valley surrounded by tall pines growing out of the ground at unreal angles. At the end of this path you can climb out upon the large stone outcroppings just at the break of the falls, and stand taking pictures. Moss and the water itself make these rocks a little slippery though; I nearly lost my footing a few times.
Scrambling back to the path, I took the other fork, and found myself climbing up even higher. At this point the path leads you to the base of the falls, but in a mirror to the falls, very steeply. There are a few pictures I took trying to show this. I spent a great deal of the way down on my bum, trying not to slip. Switching tactics, I went down backwards, moving like a climber back and forth over the escarpment, following and grasping roots. At the base, I quickly moved to the rocky beach at the base of the falls to take pictures.
I didn't venture much more, as the sky turned quickly dark, far to early to be related to the sunset. I dashed up the hill again; a feat to say the least. Running along the path, I could barely see. All I could think of was a children's book I remember having read to me as a child. It starts off "We're going on a bear hunt, gonna catch a big one, I'm not scared... can't go over it, can't go under it, gotta go through it...". At the climax of the book the family on the bear hunt find the bear, and the next few pages involve them running back to their house, through all of the obstacles they crossed earlier. That's what I felt I was doing. I jogged through the forest, over the fallen trees, and under a few. When I reached the mouth of the path and I heard the threatening creak and crack of an overhead tree I made a mad dash for my car.
As I unlocked the door and jumped inside large raindrops started to fall on my windshield. With the aid of my local map (thanks Dad!) I found my way to a shortcut that would lead me back to camp. As I drove, I beat the rain out, making my way ahead of the storm front. Stopping only to check in at the campsite, I made it back to camp seeing lightening and thunder follow me. As the rain finally caught up with me, I readied the camper by pulling the canopy down sharply.
The rain was like a flood, and within a few minutes the ground surrounding my campsite was mud. Rain poured off the camper in many places. Lightening would flash, and no more than a few seconds later the thunder rumbled and cracked back. The firework display in the sky was so frequent, only seconds passed between each pair. I'll admit I was a bit frightened. I had to shout to be heard, though you may ask who I was talking to. My security blankets; mom and dad.
Zipping the camper up tight, grabbing my pillow and wrapping it in my raincoat, and securing the canopy I dashed for the car, and drove back to my new place. We made the decision it was probably best I stayed there, seeing as the only change of clothing I had were my pjs, and I was soaked and muddy from the rain. The twenty minute drive was frightening, and I don't think I ever reached the speed limit. Wipers at their highest speed, and still I couldn't see the road. Lightening and thunder continued their symphony, making me jump quite a few times. I tried to capture a few pictures of it, placing my camera upward on the dashboard, clicking everytime the lightening flashed. I did get a few pictures of clouds lit up right after the lightening. I made it back to my new place safely, though my phone died on the way. The storm continued throughout most of the night, waking me up quite a few times when the thunder cracked loudly.
It is currently 55ºF out, and very damp from the storms. I'm happy I stayed in town last night, because goodness knows I would've scared much easier at the camper. I'll head out there this afternoon to check on things, and make sure the camper survived.
I hope you all enjoy the pictures, because even though I was scared, I loved taking them.
Today's quote is a favorite of mine. It's about remembering joy, and staying positive. "Birds sing after a storm; why shouldn't people feel as free to delight in whatever sunlight remains to them?" - Rose Kennedy
Monday, August 18, 2008
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)