As I visited my phenology spot for the last time as a freshman in college, I couldn’t help but think back to the beginning of the year, and how different yet the same both the place and I are now. Though I do not consider myself a part of the place, I consider it a part of me. I cherish the time I’ve spent there, whether it was a quick trip in between classes, a few hours spent thinking and sketching there, or just passing through to show it to my friends. It has certainly made me feel a lot more connected with the land. Watching the seasons change, and seeing how the place reacted gave me a window into the broader landscape of Vermont, and helped me empathize with the people who live here now, as well as those who lived here before.
Then again, maybe I am part of the place. Though I’ve tried to minimize my impact as best I can, I’ve left footprints in the snow and the mud. I’ve listened to the birds, and maybe they’ve heard me too. Back in the fall when I was choosing a spot, I was drawn to this one by the chipmunks and squirrels that scampered across the bank. Since then I’ve noticed that they still pass through from time to time, just as I do. Who knows if I’m part of the place. All I really know is that I’m grateful for what it has taught me.