July 17

Saturday would have been a good day at Forest Hill for a hike with my dog, Remi.  However, I had to postpone my weekly hike until Sunday. The early morning weather was mostly sunny, humid with a temperature of 75 degrees and no wind. I descended the hill and hiked past Mallard Marsh where several small frogs hopped across the trail. Walking through Bobolink Meadow, I saw lots of large, white blossoms of Queen Anne’s Lace (Wild Carrot). Also, I noticed a few white blossoms from the Indian hemp plant. Native people from North America produced various useful items from the hemp fibers. They made cordage and thread as well as twine which was excellent for making fishing lines and nets. At the entrance to North Woods, I observed a single Purple Loosestrife plant. Since this species is an invasive plant that can choke out wetlands, I will be vigilant to make sure it does not spread. As I entered the coolness of North Woods, a deer took off and headed toward Succession Field. I exited North Woods and continued around Succession Field and noticed dozens of 1-2 inch long, bronze-colored Meadow Hawk Dragonflies darting among the grasses. I entered South Woods and hiked past Swanson Swamp where I heard the low strumming call of 2-3 bullfrogs. I exited South Woods and continued on to Artist Overlook where I paused to notice how the large patches of Reed Canary Grass had turned from green to golden brown. I continued along the south trail and turned at Frog Fen toward Brady Cemetery.  I passed the cemetery where I noticed several blue blossoms of Chicory. The roots of this plant are baked, ground, and used as a coffee substitute and additive, especially in the Mediterranean region (where the plant is native), although its use as a coffee additive is also very popular in India, parts of Southeast Asia, South Africa and southern United States, particularly in New Orleans.  Following the trail into Native Meadow, I was amazed to see the field colored with a dense growth of white Wild Carrot and yellow Black-eyed Susan’s. In the southeast corner were several tall, yellow Common Mullein plants sticking up. Every so often I would observe the beautiful pale pink blossoms of Wild Bergamot and the dirk pink blossoms of Bull Thistle.  I continued hiking along the edge of duckweed-covered Grebe Pond where I noticed the resident family of seven geese swimming quietly near the northwest end as well as four other adult geese swimming near the middle. I passed the barn and arrived back at the Classroom Building. Finally, I wiped off the sweat, hopped in the van and headed for home.

Loud is the summer's busy song


The smallest breeze can find a tongue,


While insects of each tiny size


Grow teasing with their melodies,


Till noon burns with its blistering breath


Around, and day lies still as death.

John Clare