Since the last time I was here, a lot has changed. Even the way I got to my site had changed. Walking in, I had to watch my footing to avoid slipping on mud or ice. The bridge I usually took to cross the brook to get to my site had been moved to a different spot, and it looked like it was due to the higher water level. It felt wrong, but why? I guess I started to form a connection to the place I had started to get to know. Am I starting to form a sense of place?
As I walked on the new path to get over the brook, I wondered if this was bad in terms of leave-no-trace principles since we were off the main trail. Upon reaching the part of the place I define as my site, I was able to notice a lot of changes. There was snow, the ground was extremely muddy, the water had risen (though it was narrower), and there was very little wildlife to be found. There were no visible fish or water striders as there had been before. Most of the birds have migrated as Naturally Curious had talked about. I will never fully understand how quickly the weather and a place can change in Vermont.
My experience of this place fits into my sense of place in Vermont, and my sense of place outdoors. The more time and experiences I have, the stronger a sense of place will occur for me. Especially with Vermont, ever since I was little I had a strong sense of place in the Green Mountains. Being able to live in Burlington, and develop a sense of place here expands my connection with Vermont as a whole, which is something I’m excited about. The amazing thing is, I’ll never fully understand a place because it is constantly developing and changing throughout time and history. For example, because of climate change, my sense of place at my site/Vermont as a whole may change if it is negatively impacted or destroyed. This would be incredibly heartbreaking.
I’m excited to notice that my sense of place here is developing. I wonder what coming back to Burlington will be like after going home for Thanksgiving break. Will I be happy to be back “home”? Is this home yet? I guess I’ll have to see.
