Over time, I’ve seen this spot change from being a snow-covered landscape with nothing but thick ice covering the stream, to a flourish understory with flowing water. I haven’t notice any major changes to the area, but was shocked to see how fast the foliage had changed once spring arrived. It was as if a switch was flipped and greenery appeared as soon as the weather had reached 50°F. I also noticed that many trees have fallen in this area, mostly young deciduous trees. I believe it is because of all the rain we got this past week, leaving the soil muddy and young tree roots revealed.
After my time here, I’ve come particularly familiarly with this spot, near the large rock in picture. I have spent my time sitting on the rock and sketching my surroundings and listening for any signs of wildlife. It has turned into a perfect sanctuary for me to escape to and enjoy the natural area. Because of this spot, I now consider myself a part of this place and seem to have a connection to it. I think the biggest factor that has led me to this connection is the fact that this spot is off the trail and that I found it on my own. Even after completing my phenology series, I will continue to come to Centennial Brook.