April 23, 2023 – Eric Terral
My spot by the stream in Centennial Woods,
Overall, my site has not changed too drastically over the semester. I would say the most significant change would be things budding and new growth emerging which is an incredible site. there are some smaller-scale changes to the site that could be human or storm-induced. As depicted in the drawing above, there are branches hanging over the stream and smaller sticks and rocks inside the stream. every time I visit, there are new sticks in a new place, along with new rocks in new places .
The largest landmark I am familiar with is the stream. The repeated sound of water hitting rocks and various in the stream has always been so calming and a huge motive for choosing this spot, to begin with. Not only am I familiar with the sound of the stream but also how it looks. As you will notice from the drawing, the stream wraps around where I sit, which has always been a great feeling to be completely surrounded. It’s an isolating feeling that is almost canceled out by the consistency of the water’s sound.
Nature and culture intertwine on the level of how this land used to be occupied by the Abenaki before it was bought by someone who sold it to UVM. Now, I am here appreciating its beauty and serenity.
I do not consider myself a part of my place. That’s the way I think it should be, I can play a part in the place by picking up trash and not destroying the vegetation, but that is just basic respect for nature. I think it is best to just observe these places and remove human impacts, as I mentioned above. Their beauty and individuality will be preserved by nature, all we have to do is make sure we don’t mess it up.
It’s been real,
Eric