Final blog of the semester!!!
As I returned to my phenology spot for the last time this semester, I came to a point of reflection. The snow had just started sticking to the ground the night before visiting, so I was eager to see my location coated in a fresh coat of fluffy snow. Let’s just say it did not disappoint! The walk over to my spot in Centennial was pretty alone as soft and gentle snow fell from the sky, but it was even more gorgeous when I finally got into the forest and reached my location. The river was lined with bright shiny snow, the flakes falling from the sky melting into its water. Everything looked so different as the snow dampened the street sounds in the distance, and the planes in the sky, and left the simple sounds of nature with me. I always love it when it’s snowing because it feels like time stops for a bit, it slows down my thinking and makes me at peace. This was such a great feeling coming to my spot for the final time this semester.
As I explored my newly snow-covered phenology spot, I noticed some foliage change. Most of the trees were bare of leaves, however, dead leaves were clinging onto the White Oaks around my spot as well as Eastern White Pines, the only conifer in my phenology spot. Out of all the small vegetation, ironweed held its dead leaves on the most. All other small vegetation was dead. The dwarf honeysuckle held its leaves at a yellow color, showing that this is a persistent species. The fall leaf litter is now covered by an inch or two of snow which will speed up the process of decomposition. There are signs of decomposition in the water, much like previous times I have visited my spot. I did not observe any animal tracks besides dog prints, however, I saw a bird nest in the far distance away from my phenology spot. Animal activity had decreased a lot, I did not see the typical birds or squirrels I saw at my spot before. I did however see many gaggles of Canadian geese fly overhead on my way to my spot and as I was sitting at my spot.
The aspect of my phenology spot that I enjoyed the most was the peacefulness of it all; hearing the brook run as the snow quietly falls, dampening the world around me. I definitely can say my phenology spot has been best while it’s snowing. It becomes so much more peaceful. This spot has brought me to a standstill every time I show up. It’s finals week currently and I was so stressed about all the tasks and studying I needed to do, but when I arrived at my spot I came to peace. This spot has helped me slow down my thoughts and enjoy nature. It makes me feel so grounded and calm, and I see myself visiting this spot in the years to come!