tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54002077951217063082024-03-13T05:36:43.910-04:00Just Add Nature“Here is this vast, savage, howling mother of ours, Nature, lying all around, with such beauty, and such affection for her children, as the leopard; and yet we are so early weaned from her breast to society, to that culture which is exclusively an interaction of man on man.” - Henry David ThoreauJust Add Naturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066259451880263000noreply@blogger.comBlogger22125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5400207795121706308.post-52302091023023524492011-03-19T05:18:00.003-04:002011-04-23T07:17:17.477-04:00Hemlock Point Trail - Green Lane Park<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5598731048481641298" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz2zTayxia5BRuXvv2I3P-tH3i6m9M4wCnj4TxKPpMJuuPSnQlU_a-3hp04IfMqbI_vOpkVVvFSzyTzCnHiAQwU0K6L3a_77tp5BfhHuyrPek0ZktnB1PreGYv9NkavnAD7HRxa4qglSw5/s320/IMG_7148.JPG" /> <br /><div>So we've been back hiking, at least monthly, for a few months now. I, however, have not been great about remembering or finding the time to update the blog. I'm hoping that Z, A, R, and I will also manage to get out once a week for a hike very soon. Although I still haven't figured out what to do with A if she poops out and wants to be carried. Thankfully, I had some help this hike since that did happen. A very gracious papa carried R so I could carry her.</div><br /><div><br /></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5598732151499975010" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZirzVkz0eDEteyYMAmzY1v35G59MbCGhwKZf6KYSUj0VZ8f2gkuDpdiomxKQnvK87ijSgyaKQzHxRsRVEgy_MR1iVw53vP0q5myvhp23ef1IWClFb_xRngbJjS-gPEme2MuAnXw-sdseQ/s320/IMG_7144.JPG" />This month we went back to an old favorite that has changed quite a bit - the Hemlock Point Trail at Green Lane Park in Montgomery County. The trail has changed because part of it is now the connection between the trails at Green Lane and the Perkiomen Trail. While much of Green Lane is used by horse back riders, the main part of the Hemlock Point Trail is off limits to horses and bikes.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5598733362422305554" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr7uGdmXSwDd8sMYatNDnon_2NSnHpZWFN3stpoP-q6r53pVMiLHg_WG7iLhIG6iuAT3viBSlp4Wt7VQDhs0L64HmgzZbL6BF9Pf-EpMquW51MXq7_8nmjovFKm3NhkSAbWdvFKh4CXgbw/s320/IMG_7150.JPG" />We had a nice leisurely hike with lots of stick and rock collecting. The rocks were tossed into the water at one point. Z and A visited the blast off tree that we found two years ago while hiking with daddy on the trail. There was a salamander, a few worms, and we spied a couple of cormorants down near the damn. The children made a good (pretend) campfire and we even had a few marshmallow roasters. All in all it was a good day.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5598734899823427522" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaqxn8PXulspkToohaPOVH3yfE1pb9Soc43eHxzHb04dDFpH5OmsMVXxhR9jWbjMvZMiE5QYEZ7eRXN5m9OuduhNfjkh0thlE4EAHbHfbWKwawgCHjP2WO9XTgn0Wk7T_I_mJ27zRQF7m3/s320/IMG_7142.JPG" /><br /><br /><br /><div></div>Just Add Naturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066259451880263000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5400207795121706308.post-2399187245917343432010-07-19T04:35:00.014-04:002010-07-20T06:30:12.912-04:00Nature Center at Peace Valley Park<div><div><div><div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495691175339452946" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPigFspZmMMMU88I3CEe0v9CnGxMABfpRfEvaKH9LnrogvImA_fo6hzrNqIEenEr6bdg-nGBmLNpfotzdkieKpC6rujU5yWYgXtFNYVj5Grq-D6otqt8E4eRwv-63syYmXQD61WLuiwyQ7/s320/IMG_5648.JPG" /> Last month we met at Ringing Rocks but someone forgot her camera so on our first documented hike after our break we had a delightful hike at the <a href="http://www.peacevalleynaturecenter.org/">Peace Valley Park Nature Center</a>. Frogs, worms, and a rocketship tree were just a few of the highlights of our adventures.<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495690264100781234" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLeYh8xy41H20GIgCphTFRV4yVCACWxT78G6kyUL3ZdyCNQrC-t7FnlyEjorISqgAyM3G2MGAU9WA6dD4Avz8oMgPdeyoMA6eQrJ6PxHFpWb1wAy7v7Vv87qA1fY8zzfh3Bq3F4sGh0v84/s320/IMG_5637.JPG" />Z, A, R, and I hadn't managed to make it to the park before last weekend to explore the trails so we just followed the children's lead (most of the time) and wandered through the woods in search of the Pooh Tree. Along the way we encountered some deer, a pond full of frogs, one frog in particular who probaby wished he was a little faster, lots of worms, raspberries, wineberries, and lots of beautiful sights.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495697912368925234" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQQnl9IjnpGU5jGUUKc9lmVSSrUZO9Bh7ZTHZuXOD563YvbRJh-buANGCUOyQdriGhXxFkkZoN_UPXXFwt27e5U4gVNZfEgoG9lkcPB6tN7yE-iQxierjsWil4rTxus4nMTwzPhjVAEZCH/s320/IMG_5640.JPG" /> When we arrived at the Pooh Tree, the children immediately decided it was a rocketship and were searching for the button to make it blast off. Since it was a very hot day and there was a nice breeze, a bench, and shade, the adults on the hike relaxed for a short time while the children explored the tree and its surroundings. <div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495697932277709458" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQRAb1tItPzeaoCbpFWjxRrkXphLEsi1O68_ZrX9kKFbXKsbvtX80wQNGPBEtbr0qn4v7dB5seXxqYrHJSu7pUAvon120NQfAnuDC3ITeG8RVmRzTqtJq5TcsurKUEqYv-VfeIiAtqUWeP/s320/IMG_5652.JPG" />Eventually, some of the explorers ventured up the dry creek bed beside the tree in search of worms and other creatures. They were very successful in that endeavor and came back with handfuls of worms. After convincing those same collectors, that they couldn't take the worms with them and finding suitable places to leave the worms, we started back to the parking area.<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495933073900795778" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5c_gZBoagid3M62UVJVCkJgbwoGhWERGIDqP4QJZkrujV8EL7d3CvrdOi-nQHJ7QVXF3vFb3aCNfK6SMSATIxZ9EDZzLnJgWGpC83C07NfY-dQJN9W2kXIGoSTOVzMdIK11ZbnE-l5Syx/s320/IMG_5654.JPG" />"The hike isn't over yet is it?" was heard several times as we neared the end of the trails. Sadly, it was the end of a very lovely day but there are other days ahead. Hope to see you next on Saturday, August 21 at Green Lane Park. Get outdoors!</div></div></div></div></div></div>Just Add Naturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066259451880263000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5400207795121706308.post-45554280967948707332010-03-23T07:05:00.004-04:002010-03-23T07:19:51.218-04:00Short HiatusJust Add Nature is taking a short break while Z and A get a new sibling. 'Swing Cat' as Z has dubbed his new brother or sister is slated to arrive in late April - we'll see no one else has followed the rules (and they still don't). I'm hoping to get all three of them out and about in June as well as planning the first group hike for the middle of the month. So check back soon or send us an <a href="mailto:outdoorswithkids@gmail.com">email</a>.Just Add Naturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066259451880263000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5400207795121706308.post-9000156111478630982010-02-02T16:03:00.003-05:002010-02-02T16:08:36.645-05:00Pennsylvania Parks #1Did you know that Pennsylvania State Parks were recently named the best state park system in the country by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration and the National Recreation and Park Association? Here's a video that highlights some of the parks and programs going on in our beautiful state - <a href="http://cmsmedia.state.pa.us/players/cmsplayer.asp?video_filename=AModernDayLegacy.m4v">http://cmsmedia.state.pa.us/players/cmsplayer.asp?video_filename=AModernDayLegacy.m4v</a>Just Add Naturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066259451880263000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5400207795121706308.post-55734148979305222772010-01-23T15:20:00.002-05:002010-02-02T15:59:29.291-05:00Quarry Trail Lake Nockamixon State Park<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3z7UteODnCRIj76SQPWT60iRZy_Cyu9sELGPR_hNBZ-3kxnI84KJFbvP29lz0QuhjHW2Ma5WAygEZ_1_9mJ27_PchL5SU77BgK4Gi8GGCbMWFM6-CIzefhSeeOgO4V4WFGN2uzK3JLV_W/s1600-h/IMG_4626.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433752362730291634" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3z7UteODnCRIj76SQPWT60iRZy_Cyu9sELGPR_hNBZ-3kxnI84KJFbvP29lz0QuhjHW2Ma5WAygEZ_1_9mJ27_PchL5SU77BgK4Gi8GGCbMWFM6-CIzefhSeeOgO4V4WFGN2uzK3JLV_W/s320/IMG_4626.JPG" border="0" /></a> <div><div><div><div><div><div>It was a beautiful day for a hike at <a href="http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/Parks/nockamixon.aspx">Lake Nockamixon</a>. We returned to the Quarry Trail with the Just Add Nature group so Daddy could try to identify the chestnut tree we found as an American or Chinese. The lake was still frozen and there was still enough ice in spots for some fun and a few spills and tears. A was the youngest on the hike and got lots of help from the adults in the group who helped keep her on track.</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433749799997931570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRve1qbe_gswATTq0vjYCRY7eSLzhv89Z_hKfMANnd9Nga7LE-hHxnEzR3ipxhaR-NjLzw6xVoYU24AJIwyb2O2kc68j6arUn6xhL4IDBCF-jDXaHDQoQtr70Xfi9rcgQsfQ-VapGWlL4h/s320/IMG_4609.JPG" border="0" /> <div></div><div>Everyone enjoyed the view from the peak of the hill which looks down to the lake. I even heard mention of a picnic sometime when the weather warms up. The boys got ahead of the rest of the group and when A and I finally caught up we found they had passed a turn in the trail and ventured out onto a peninsula of sorts. All the little ones were quietly listening to the pinging and popping of the ice as it expanded and contracted in the morning sun. I have fond (and sometimes scary) memories of that sound having spent a large portion of my childhood living beside a small pond where we frequently ice skated during the winter.</div><br /><div></div><div>We finally convinced the big and small boys that they needed to turn around and go back or they would miss the chestnut tree. Once we found it, Daddy took some time to study it and decided that he thinks it is an American chestnut. This tree was BIG so this is a very rare specimen if it is. I have yet to send off an email to the park or the <a href="http://www.acf.org/">American Chestnut Foundation </a>to verify. We'll return in the spring to check on it again when it has leaves so we can be absolutely certain. Daddy explained to most of the children and adults why this is such a special discovery. And why the research being done by the American Chestnut Foundation with the cooperation of <a href="http://www.arboretum.psu.edu/research/orchard.html">Penn State</a> is so important.</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433751421838496642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd3uzssz5EBt0LTOqS1ApkUMOzfR7wphXCAeyKbjS6E7173aCiMSs_Uwe90jY6vShKx9d1rIr_0U7prqmQjJqw3vLHHgTi52baQCUPiRejI2lolPtbF8Lw_7eFkN6CC6LPT2S8w6Wft6ls/s320/IMG_4615.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433751436461421794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiry7bKujII56ehhf9yMf3sCQ7d2Lc1K2M-SFAsrzrwtI2r_bZAr6PU7k5ZGzbBAY-i_4FnG1kFrpPF80yA4tUSFNd9yqbH9Qo0rgHBhn-VF9oZo-7kbFp1edvW3Vk2cuXFUGU38S3Yk-XF/s320/IMG_4619.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433751434247803618" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWTdf4WLIZZ66i-EaTLbedlyMm8drMzQWjFLBk5bkuogzy2UunVHQ4QJpeHS_OWcTW5JL4mMkxu3-bLu6h0nz5kUEbeAIzCko1hmTpCNz6ETC5fsgSjSk3YLJPGsc4V_kDHxJOLALe2d1m/s320/IMG_4617.JPG" border="0" /> <div></div><div>We decided to continue on around the loop instead of turning back. However, everyone agreed that this trail is very hard to navigate and confuses even those with a great sense of direction near the end. This was also a very popular location for hunters (it was the last day of the special regulation area extended season for deer) so if you venture out during hunting season please be careful.</div><br /><div></div><div>Our next group hike will be February 20 at 10 a.m. at a location to be determined. Get outdoors!</div></div></div></div></div></div>Just Add Naturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066259451880263000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5400207795121706308.post-88261855727215529052010-01-16T15:51:00.008-05:002010-01-31T07:15:55.152-05:00Weekend Hike - Black Moshannon State Park<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0zHZZM0ECQFnCPqsa7eHyQfbnoRcn7RUsILJ-g4WAGzGq59iwtu6JsgKauMMcw0O1EnnNJeBRSBUA9JrLPPT1XGZJ7yqKWOmKxI-vVOKI_w0AXLqy0HsteIzhJofIVlPkpDenyjymYskz/s1600-h/IMG_4580.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5432874387202816114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0zHZZM0ECQFnCPqsa7eHyQfbnoRcn7RUsILJ-g4WAGzGq59iwtu6JsgKauMMcw0O1EnnNJeBRSBUA9JrLPPT1XGZJ7yqKWOmKxI-vVOKI_w0AXLqy0HsteIzhJofIVlPkpDenyjymYskz/s320/IMG_4580.JPG" border="0" /></a>We ventured up to State College for a visit with my favorite aunt and uncle on MLK weekend. We were hoping for snow since they have a few great sledding slopes nearby but were greeted by a landscape similar to Southeastern Pennsylvania's - GRAY! So we drove up to <a href="http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/parks/blackmoshannon.aspx">Black Moshannon State Park</a> between Phillipsburg and State College. <div><div><div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5432872963921728770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_WqIbPgHbrfw3NUqNPsWNxiJQFVtjQoHTvLGLwrG4_d-H28gUXrASgSG_HZFoocCYnAJuP-QCAjIuCJzUedjDC0C84sNMQlhduO7QRXG9S8Sa5DhBmY7ZGC8SQpZyMUh4WdE2jzEAuNcM/s320/IMG_4563.JPG" border="0" />As we climbed the windy roads to the park, my aunt informed me that the park and lake are actually at the top of the mountain. This is the first trip I remember to this park although I'm sure my grandparents brought me here at some point during my childhood. According to both my mother and aunt, this was one of their favorite parks. When my grandparents first moved to State College in the 1950s, my grandmother, my mother, and her three siblings lived at the park for several weeks until their home in town was ready. My aunt spoke fondly of their time there. And now I understand why!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5432872127602515746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFtLO4c8fHN08-UMT4EMtTfRMSzYU2aTOOpb_7p04bZFnVYq6tdLTNmKWX9mPRAd97fUn6zIjj9m1MUiv0oQcQvZcymGi8L5vfwWqa5_D8pKqBCVVZPjnqeqS7AqraSWvRYtY6wXX68bfd/s320/IMG_4554.JPG" border="0" /> What a lovely park. The lake was frozen and full of ice fishermen. We started our hike on the frozen lake. Z and A were lucky enough to get a ride on the new toboggan that my aunt and uncle bought for our visit. We talked to the fishermen about ice fishing while several of their catch lay flopping around at their feet. Nothing like taking your dinner home and plopping it already frozen into the freezer!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5432871395413211186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5XOIp4ykucpEWqt4XPfOGvyCuUKmEilj9_hz0f0SiE3CjwSLLH5gwXQKNZ1Np6M0aA_ewjcZF-SHoLJIB0UgB4-iQSJbk5RQgZMvTqfQnn-7rtfjqCWoGdC0GosthVeW0i8CD6BL46MYs/s320/IMG_4553.JPG" border="0" /> We made it to the boardwalk which juts out into the bog along the shoreline of the lake. At the end of the boardwalk we decided to continue on the trail a bit to see if we could see the beaver damn. It wasn't a far walk but the trail was snow covered so Z rode on the toboggan and A was in the backpack for most of the hike. We made it to what I think was a beaver hut and not the actually damn. We then turned and started back. A decided to ride on the toboggan a bit but was frightened and wanted to walk. My aunt and I held her hands so she wouldn't topple over in the snow to start and then plied her with m&ms every 10-15 feet at the end of the trail.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5432875039791588146" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3NSHfLKiJP0hz05FoaYNO9jFrx5LlgHQO6NJQQWrdDYt1XgMRYiBUQcjeCWkgzVGAogmITY5VlZh-V0QmXVk1-YWb7fsf1YPgPuKAh4SaMbMmazLPC19H8xJtOevnFl7j-fxE-gZ_87Rj/s320/IMG_4583.JPG" border="0" /> It was a lovely day spent with lovely people at an absolutely lovely park. I can't wait to visit the park during the summer sometime soon.</div></div></div></div></div>Just Add Naturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066259451880263000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5400207795121706308.post-33001894191454715512010-01-13T15:40:00.000-05:002010-01-31T06:44:24.019-05:00Exploratory Hike - Quarry Trail - Nockamixon State Park<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoltuv4MBCQTZt6I8bUXPx5Dv-9EzXSwyBbPB9X3Sk4mvL1QSE2wOSWh6c3FRarmCqmJ5sXGoLGVM6a04Wy-1cQqathl_BDsnp0bb32xQduJs_Gnki-l2z2puRjt8-NFIjMChtgZpF5jk3/s1600-h/IMG_4535.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5432864090361069058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoltuv4MBCQTZt6I8bUXPx5Dv-9EzXSwyBbPB9X3Sk4mvL1QSE2wOSWh6c3FRarmCqmJ5sXGoLGVM6a04Wy-1cQqathl_BDsnp0bb32xQduJs_Gnki-l2z2puRjt8-NFIjMChtgZpF5jk3/s320/IMG_4535.JPG" border="0" /></a> <div><div><div><div>Z, A, and I visited the Quarry Trail at Lake Nockamixon today. We tried the trail earlier in the summer but it wasn't mowed and looked like a haven for deer ticks so we decided to pass. However, I wish we had revisited the trail later in the summer or fall. There was a glorious view of the still frozen lake from atop the hill. Z stumbled on some chestnuts that Daddy hasn't been able to verify as American or Chinese so we will be returning for our January group hike on the 23rd. And of course there was just enough snow to make Z and A happy!</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5432861070926949298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2duLVDg5myk1BHWpDO3nJxI2lLQCsIrqo1JuJlF6bXDo7rfHMQFWFoDbodxmdOPMuPcET9mkekCrAQ390vwooa3xaa-k-Be9hkbyybq5aD02cO9MNu_F3qnA_y_Bfz_dzglhFuElPnkHs/s320/IMG_4529.JPG" border="0" /> The trail is wide and well marked to start but near the end we had a hard time figuring out which way to go and ended up turning around several times. It winds through some areas with red cedars and tall grasses and works its way into the woods along Route 563. At one point there is a steep cliff overlooking the lake with a great view of the bridge on 563. The wooded part of the trail was narrower but lovely. We did run into a hunter and saw several tree stands so be sure to don your blaze orange when hiking there.<br /><div></div><br /><div>At several points I noticed signs of what used to be residences or other structures on this land. There seemed to a driveway and there were several stone structures. However, Z was thrilled by the troll or elf house we found in this tree.</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5432866404478144114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAoYnQx4cDg5FtH3J7nylnz5PzqsXGUgFhkCjwScTPFCcllqiV5_f0_Lc5zbP3kIUZXIpY2D7pB8PulF3-oX0uIVooaSGVm0qfdRC9kITEIihiN4oYk8MA6E4rkMj7KLLirzGkHf2s572C/s320/IMG_4539.JPG" border="0" />And we did get one glimpse of color in the mostly gray and white landscape. This bright orange fungus in some of the remaining snow.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5432862908220243986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEismGyr7E9t5UCkXeDS7e7SDBjnBhhru36FniKJBNa9DL_4sASWgLiBYVhKYG1zMvMw-5y1DbCS0h1QH5qBxX4qjnAUzdE-4HJCypInZVApx_hfn_lbqd_Y1BcTtLiU2ERiWojW67vvRyd2/s320/IMG_4533.JPG" border="0" /></div></div></div>Just Add Naturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066259451880263000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5400207795121706308.post-72819430993336986982009-12-21T17:08:00.014-05:002009-12-23T06:56:28.071-05:00Exploratory Hike - Sterner's Mill Trail - Nockamixon State Park<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq4LNHy3ThE3fkoXzrezwa1UlxJ17iXeLBq0y64baXJOPEpYNqR3TdxK7lgPiQYfw3ZNmMH7jSmTz8vGeiwHE3WaJJy3BbINu7uNc9tejP_YOZDOUnL7nDrdJvIpOTXW5j3CtwRvblvZ8f/s1600-h/IMG_4386.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417830005151963458" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq4LNHy3ThE3fkoXzrezwa1UlxJ17iXeLBq0y64baXJOPEpYNqR3TdxK7lgPiQYfw3ZNmMH7jSmTz8vGeiwHE3WaJJy3BbINu7uNc9tejP_YOZDOUnL7nDrdJvIpOTXW5j3CtwRvblvZ8f/s320/IMG_4386.JPG" border="0" /></a> Unfortunately, we had to cancel our December hike due to extreme windchill temperatures on Saturday but today Z, A, and I headed out to the Sterner Mill Trail at <a href="http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/Parks/nockamixon.aspx">Nockamixon State Park </a>to hunt for Jack Frost and King Winter. As a Winter Solstice gift this year the children received <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Ollies-Trip-Mini-Maartman-Beskow/dp/0863156479/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1261433825&sr=1-1">'Ollie's Ski Trip' by Elsa Beskow </a>and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Story-Snow-Children-Sibylle-Olfers/dp/0863154999/ref=pd_bxgy_b_img_b">'The Story of the Snow Children' by Sibylle Von Olfers</a>. Z was so enthralled by 'Ollie's Ski Trip' that he decided we had to go for a hike to search for these two mystical beings.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417829066938946946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheVuwNzvyjBHWYHfMN-99Aus2es8HToUrxE-8NOqt8hDaa6JGX9aDsDvYooAgH0ziJJ02MeBodqleFDktlwe6aDsRusVj88vmZxaquYNiJI9bW1fsVhd324hklUkl7S2TyW7yYkvpldC5s/s320/IMG_4385.JPG" border="0" />We had a wonderful hike. It warmed up just enough for us to enjoy ourselves in a winter wonderland. All the animals must still be bedded down after the storm but we did hear quite a few birds and spotted <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snow_flea">snow fleas</a> everywhere. I thought maybe the dogs who had hiked the trail before us had left these little guys behind but there were far too many. But when I told daddy about the little critters he said, 'Oh yeah, snow fleas.' Who knew?! <div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417831934330872274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3-M37dllWGrz538z5b-V744AS30S_KUlxljQPu2zJ1DoNvOvdPC-VynfwU5QVWTjvQse47YDAFgl1zXo72JpWWUZMRNtx5Ee_lvYtNUPklk_Wapiqw4gv_UXeymlgA2-gwpTFYc_TMS9R/s320/IMG_4388.JPG" border="0" />Z was enchanted by the sound that the trees made blowing in the wind. Sometimes it was eery and he would run to catch up with me but other times he stood in awe looking up at the treetops as they blew around in the wind. He was very inquisitive and wondered why the trees make that noise in the winter but not at other times. A on the other hand was fascinated by the birds. All I heard over my shoulder was, 'I see burd, I see burd.'<br /><br /><div>I was hoping to return to Nockamixon next week to check out the sledding hill but the weather forecast for later this week doesn't look very promising. We'll see what Christmas Day has in store for us snow, rain, or ice. Get outdoors and enjoy the winter! <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417831273984565986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXzNfSD8rOILQbbca-SnrbyMNjZrkkUJyFv7uEw-lD5S7ihhca9526JsPp0ClBhFbIHTSEPQOF1mL6lz6Toplyg5n3k7lwpcAu020ukCEwA2yVWrEK6ehFC4YgRkKXBGhIvIQ-PNyEUb34/s320/IMG_4391.JPG" border="0" /></div></div><br /><br /><br />Oh and in case you were wondering, we didn't find Jack Frost or King Winter but Z and A are ready to visit another forest to look for both of them sometime soon!Just Add Naturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066259451880263000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5400207795121706308.post-77012347456593516742009-11-26T06:44:00.005-05:002009-12-08T12:40:38.080-05:00Thanksgiving Day Hike at French Creek<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3MW-30yX5j7m71wSXwi-iS6lk-LHsfncezcJGbohmHQir57rxEcEEuSQveZIL6tmkfr3rA_NqGoh3F6735GvaJwwJhUuBLxN93DnOomwTWMPPyU5UfqmdS8BrR2O3ijgPKK1xtcOS-P_r/s1600-h/IMG_4147.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412832927857748114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3MW-30yX5j7m71wSXwi-iS6lk-LHsfncezcJGbohmHQir57rxEcEEuSQveZIL6tmkfr3rA_NqGoh3F6735GvaJwwJhUuBLxN93DnOomwTWMPPyU5UfqmdS8BrR2O3ijgPKK1xtcOS-P_r/s320/IMG_4147.JPG" border="0" /></a> <div><div><div><div><div><div>It has long been a tradition in my family to hike on Thanksgiving morning. I can remember being dragged out to various state and local parks in Central Pennsylvania in rainy, cold, dreary weather by my grandmother during much of my childhood. This year my mother and I both thought it was time to revive that tradition. So my brother's family, my mother and stepfather, and my children and I all met at French Creek State Park for a short hike before visiting the very same aforementioned grandmother (and grandfather) at their assisted living facility.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412832743513687522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQgyY50-age1fto69UMJMjVPS0oeJY9mTnjqWydaKBV0pAlbWJp2uycDWcMYgM8gFsEe0zVEbOt4RozyFqw5L5Jx3vUPh0X26eLZAxLAZ6obCa0DVOyS0Djws-SQVPgMs7IeCrDy1oRV3c/s320/IMG_4119.JPG" border="0" /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412832758741284882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgATzVW6UC9W2iAnp_zFfqRvv8e6GnHdnJXx0jj4cfe1MwZ-MQrgE7HB6nCL162M5aNKJud9o5ddN8fZmJLPL2VBWPqhcc8Q7NLZ1T5ZIRj12910ReAE4cjgoU-XU2VuwZTb1LIvzphavpO/s320/IMG_4138.JPG" border="0" /> <div></div><div>As tradition would have it, it was a wet, cold, dreary morning. My brother who frequents French Creek on his mountain bike and for hikes chose the trail. Despite the weather we all had a wonderful time especially Z and his cousin, C, who spent the whole hike playing with Papou. A is holding her own on many of our hikes now and complains if I try to put her in the backpack. We've been choosing simpler hikes for her so that she can join in the fun.</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412832774014816386" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA0OxVo5xhoUpDCM0mHq_StJh6rbIUUgHnoMrxCtF6Xua0Eh-SAZJS83QZ_va1O6nLjTcqp1w5DeTRrsS8iauTf4RCb0Kl81sQ3quzJ5pUNl9z9MEwgZBUQ5Rj5fcA9z4bF7Huy2aBdMV6/s320/IMG_4143.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412832752287349602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihTNQIHWpAWjY9BMJuJJU-O_ZtYZPp7B76_xDDozE_VlCJifoF1fWgq0bXU1x2AQVzk0dLFiIJHRUq2N4iBM9onz0o63gnFNnx3omElO-OoyGgjB4G_30GikI2lsAOxd6-3d4VYcydTlEP/s320/IMG_4134.JPG" border="0" /> <div></div><div>Hope you enjoyed your Thanksgiving and spent some time outdoors!</div></div></div></div></div></div>Just Add Naturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066259451880263000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5400207795121706308.post-24785236229362273402009-11-24T06:29:00.006-05:002009-12-08T06:43:08.939-05:00Puddle Stomping on the Perkiomen Trail<div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjexTX1onke4YfnKZX72ehrf4f9tPKcMeJolTRIbO5sSmDJ0GS7t8hPhDis0PoANyxzha2oNWqaRZIRGop2nz2P8aVxJIcaH7JJ5vmRlgj88mNA24XyZliaPaAuBJUSHbUUkEJBAXbkHREL/s1600-h/IMG_4101.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412828791467204770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjexTX1onke4YfnKZX72ehrf4f9tPKcMeJolTRIbO5sSmDJ0GS7t8hPhDis0PoANyxzha2oNWqaRZIRGop2nz2P8aVxJIcaH7JJ5vmRlgj88mNA24XyZliaPaAuBJUSHbUUkEJBAXbkHREL/s320/IMG_4101.JPG" border="0" /></a> <div><div><div>So it was a rainy, yucky day today. The weather wasn't conducive to a hike on wet leaves that might get slippery so we opted to go puddle stomping on the <a href="http://www.montcopa.org/parks/perkiomentrail/default.htm">Perkiomen Trail </a>just outside of Green Lane. For those that aren't familiar, the Perkiomen Trail is a multi use trail that runs from Green Lane Park down to the Schuylkill River Trail in Oaks. It is a lovely trail and I have never encountered a lot of people while walking the northern sections. And it is just perfect for puddle stomping!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412828785868000338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYmvA3UQFyBN-TbbPLvnwysSDaaffT_87__97RLfo7s_A4buxiGGJwSOMLtEaydbanxP28-p-NslL_LNiT2as2Sg9uIPi-YA7tF67DfRHi9-MH7JaQbQ4XgMnW0Lv3nL7JgSwQN1Yz_r3x/s320/IMG_4100.JPG" border="0" /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412828802888974642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZb_9SVl6s1y-xMHQBmJFyDE43tDF9RcH0G9_PDAMql3Id9ew51lKEXyf5Nw22_eQcnOzy8QtV2BpbLiHTOSq3NPvl-p02_rU0nCzKpftGEatu8EbYi0G4BC56hdzkYN8d8uJlU_ZvH3E9/s320/IMG_4106.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412828801107470274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGZx0V1TG9f7x7Q7Kad9FlKXJfWoJsXhyphenhyphenB733mAK6lPUaXP5sn8E8pxRjvfakDLtcCy2XBhuI4L16CG6A7VwvjdUTExE6fhxCIcSgIIEdR9MqhCHYkpq0KmC2wBxtNDX_G1YyE9NmUAzv3/s320/IMG_4105.JPG" border="0" /> <div></div><div>The children had a wonderful time and were soaked and exhausted (that's high on my priority list when outdoors) when we finally made it back to the car. We encountered some very friendly resident dogs and unfortunately the horses at the barn adjacent to the trail weren't out in the yucky weather but it was a fun day anyway! Get outdoors!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412828779281124882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZHbvr2Dq3AP9HrJAR9xAOdXpTIZJpUJAtPcVVNxaEKQnTLkgAlfZNNkcUZFqsiCN42Tz2HjCZmGdqgurfTJRb8rmE-Oq7gDISgxM2zj69F-UEKBwQtHL2fN4UVGUgjiS8gr4nA6zc_DXy/s320/IMG_4096.JPG" border="0" /></div></div></div></div></div>Just Add Naturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066259451880263000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5400207795121706308.post-77793744557869732652009-11-21T06:10:00.007-05:002009-12-08T06:28:24.236-05:00Green Lane Park<div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjggwFBJLhn-tLx5Hun91e8RGnkih2rR257D-Wh8nkGVslajuuCk7bTvCYy2wVZK_FfGCYuzePBpCSqDNSgepcdbYatUEN0ZO7sNOOv_QYrUyHhixw_TZ4iQBklXTtDH6gDSTiTnzzHeYOH/s1600-h/IMG_4078.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412824736515676946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjggwFBJLhn-tLx5Hun91e8RGnkih2rR257D-Wh8nkGVslajuuCk7bTvCYy2wVZK_FfGCYuzePBpCSqDNSgepcdbYatUEN0ZO7sNOOv_QYrUyHhixw_TZ4iQBklXTtDH6gDSTiTnzzHeYOH/s320/IMG_4078.JPG" border="0" /></a>Today we returned to Green Lane Park in Montgomery County to check out the changes that have occurred on the Hemlock Point Trail since our last group hike there in the spring. We had lovely, chilly weather on one side of the lake but it certainly warmed up on the other. It was a wonderful day to get some fresh air and spend some time in nature.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412824755314963154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGOAbfUfsaFU2gQEf41Jg65wXcV8eNUwnB5Vng66gK-b0IqL2WnrLtLsmubSZMTnsGppXDgUIuciY2LJxi_gQQCpLEGSfIPWHtLB_T4VWd2xp7UzwPcu4fcLqrdDAF62gvhLK7nFgqu1sX/s320/IMG_4081.JPG" border="0" />The children enjoyed starting the hike by throwing sticks and stones into the lake at the first access point we came to on the trail. This seems to be a recurring theme whenever we are near water and we usually end up dragging them away so we can start/finish our hike. <div><div> </div><div>The leaves had all fallen from the trees except for a few beeches that just wouldn't let go of their dried leaves. So the trail, which is rocky, was covered by fallen leaves. This did make it tough for some of our younger hikers but all in all they managed fine with some help from older siblings, friends, or mom/dad.</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412824730624191938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7UMKZDZhgIaq3628U3d7LfhFkq_LGR5Ek5qZdLvMwBQDifyineDPtzjoSfj_xP3CK9hG5RnS6UhwEUMoYIGlBvxxqbroOx239N2QQfZ0oEOl5E3XVGVYcNpLE8v2bZ-fqJ3C3fnDGd_Dg/s320/IMG_4071.JPG" border="0" />I think we may have found the last fungus of the season at the park. It was a tiny little yellow fellow that grew among some moss on a rotting log. Since I still haven't picked up a field guide to mushrooms/fungus I'm at a loss for what it might be. Any suggestions?<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412824748088390194" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiACzF07GjZxG3AlgRKPasbU8m4UaQ1S4Ro0xM9I4pDm7zzk2sWf4CrEgyonbzM7ux-SCy3IGIzGwyOznZGVu-IF3BSQKKfbwabIUEHofx6HvDdlvqwCUbce0Mb8v1eAN06shZitDS04KpZ/s320/IMG_4079.JPG" border="0" />See you on Saturday, December 19 at the Sterner's Mill Trail at Nockamixon State Park. This will be our second group hike there but it is an easy hike on what could turn out to be a cold day.<br />Get outdoors!</div></div></div>Just Add Naturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066259451880263000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5400207795121706308.post-46153753242922707392009-11-10T07:18:00.003-05:002009-11-11T07:35:55.463-05:00Exploratory Hike - Burkhart Woods - Wildlands Conservancy<div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLWiotVCvDhgaKOr2dGyuTSdVzQw__-KW76g92IxngUd24dkwt1cDdUsGv7jyn4SRGJ4H8gDD4rQToxzPp6lpy0mEaKY66wkDiFc2tZMwXwxI6qAWiarzjLW6OWmTsV2pjBOoTon5YBKZp/s1600-h/IMG_3993.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402822388293171570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLWiotVCvDhgaKOr2dGyuTSdVzQw__-KW76g92IxngUd24dkwt1cDdUsGv7jyn4SRGJ4H8gDD4rQToxzPp6lpy0mEaKY66wkDiFc2tZMwXwxI6qAWiarzjLW6OWmTsV2pjBOoTon5YBKZp/s320/IMG_3993.JPG" border="0" /></a>During yet another reprieve from fall, we ventured up to Burkhart Woods off of South Mountain Drive near Emmaus. This piece of property is part of the <a href="http://www.wildlandspa.org/">Wildlands Conservancy </a>in Emmaus. We were joined by our friends E, A, and their mommy. I stumbled upon this trailhead while driving home from Emmaus one day in the early fall. Since I didn't stop immediately to pick up a trail map or note the address it took me about a month to find it again.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402822400810916946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTNjZS8O9NX9aEqmqO8V1sI-pBgsObcpByvak0NLs6wv9-iV07AK6MklAAg-LXGFLTY-jSqAKXCwbbn6goFyJWssQGk3wezGMwP4_X6gV97m80qkwykEA1OMSlk1coqlL5G4xo6pt2PSDT/s320/IMG_3992.JPG" border="0" /> <div></div><div>Snuggled in among private property and residences it is very easy to miss this trailhead. There is a series of short interconnected trails that just meander through this wooded, hillside. While the trails weren't always clearly marked we did manage to find our way easily back to the cars.</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402822398812849410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-LKooqDCkk33oK3kWyg3-Cli8oucpeuVAhUScRml4d0FClSnQ5rZnlkQt5-XmaAeyazgiii-RdmGQTZd5D8UvTUAifd_TWXV1SG03RkK-AvYuQfTpArTDH66ypXTvrG3Q9P65tMR829A8/s320/IMG_3982.JPG" border="0" /> <div></div><div>The trails were wide and easy to hike. The two older children ran ahead while the two younger children hiked for most of our visit but both got tired and needed to be carried. This is the perfect place to venture if you are looking for a simple, quick hike. It is probably lovely in spring and fall during the leaf change. Another great place to take the family. Get outdoors!</div></div></div>Just Add Naturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066259451880263000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5400207795121706308.post-63067784485378415882009-10-25T06:44:00.006-04:002009-11-11T07:49:44.232-05:00Hawk Mountain Sanctuary<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8o3gg0Wg8Q09evCHIZz0mGIC5skqlsoybcyAgg1a8F0zaeZVGUhnsJ0IcCdiiky2gdiKuxx8Cfd4p1w-qpOobi6aCmR_l9M9UN6ALNWx2dI44myhKhygpe0fsBxf3z5idBcXXtbs3bSWl/s1600-h/IMG_3700.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402817452709998978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8o3gg0Wg8Q09evCHIZz0mGIC5skqlsoybcyAgg1a8F0zaeZVGUhnsJ0IcCdiiky2gdiKuxx8Cfd4p1w-qpOobi6aCmR_l9M9UN6ALNWx2dI44myhKhygpe0fsBxf3z5idBcXXtbs3bSWl/s320/IMG_3700.JPG" border="0" /></a>Well the weather didn't exactly cooperate with our plans to hike <a href="http://www.hawkmountain.org/">Hawk Mountain </a>on a Saturday. Fortunately, the forecast for Sunday was fantastic and it turned out to be a wonderful day. <div><div><div><div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402815625717975922" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRpbf8mlp7oEvA-AOhZkMP34g_xst-EZZA0cUVpv9oFEz4esC57SJ4FQCDDqAYtsJ2qa7HCatnx3HRj9fm_-oy7GxyGnF0c1FHXm11z_4YPMLSJMqYi6DrebTueHhnp_Gl2Ebp6QdyVHVo/s320/IMG_3713.JPG" border="0" />We in Pennsylvania are extremely lucky to have this wonderful raptor sanctuary in our backyard. Hawk Mountain is world renown for the work that they do in tracking the annual fall migration of raptors to their southern wintering spots. With the help of many, many volunteers each fall the raptors that pass by this point in the the Blue Mountain range are tracked and recorded. What a wonderful place.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402815611923636898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnKr5mvVWEf1NE-niArpk9shE5BpcZ004Jx4AzueJLPh698fVzjgNKHU4yWQNSQPPecuHVVSYmIUcwGVBfOWYxBAdlRLZ38Clr5AU04t6W29fnvJ51qCQtYgs4fMYN_vJFXwWKZjC9JLSP/s320/IMG_3709.JPG" border="0" />It turned out to be a beautiful day unfortunately there were very few raptors. However, I think everyone who joined us had a wonderful time scrambling up and down the rocks to get to the outcroppings for a better view of the valley below.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402815620037249362" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitzQrTgLt_w8RTNr6d9i9EPXXkW6DOv_EK3IfETlm_D1ESLRGAPnk4Xovlx_aFhSwYTobxey8S0MQgMzHsB_mWtbEAD6AGOL2CSVFqazb-JaGaS-8qUh2VDD2JBgwoJegnovIEQSvmGqhyphenhyphen/s320/IMG_3701.JPG" border="0" />The trails at Hawk Mountain are rocky and often steep. It is not the friendliest environment for little hikers but it seemed that everyone did fine and enjoyed themselves. I encourage everyone to try to make it back to the Sanctuary during the off season for a less crowded hike out to the Northern Lookout. The view is spectacular. And check out the calendar of events for lots of fun family outing during the fall, winter, and spring.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402815630428999298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU0p-xsKttjOnVKNOOv5y0CoW-NPoj2UfVhXhPLawI9HpBKn8RZSkJucRbOd4ohJoDX5rG6HbOpNzDEivwrgYIf_PKiN76KPIw7_j3-aXjezFRicZ48hdxM0fn2BI_GvtEEi4oVIPug74R/s320/IMG_3716.JPG" border="0" />I even got a glimpse of my favorite native winter ground cover (<em>Arctostaphylos uva-ursi</em>). Not only do I love the plant but the Latin name just rolls off your tongue. Get outdoors! See you next month at Green Lane Park!</div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402817457096480162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVlrUbmoBXkj1HP5ELJlKDrB8ku14LouzUxm_ZETsWcgs0jW3wCOwGWfJosaZKsGQ5gRJQm7JZnYuFkIvslAOAL5_Bc2AXeLJrzuH1yNTybj64p97rDo_RtmEiirfhSKzxhdSb4ab-ER27/s320/IMG_3726.JPG" border="0" /></div></div></div></div></div>Just Add Naturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066259451880263000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5400207795121706308.post-90322155559468452732009-10-20T06:15:00.005-04:002009-11-11T06:43:59.388-05:00Exploratory Hike - Sterner's Mill Trail - Nockamixon State Park<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402805653193089058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlmIyr39Q8dZBhwXE7R7QQTmEGusYTWVVAXUH8IlfHDYikmdBgvHeCn4cGXihFbF0nsEcNHZORmr9KH2hIOTP8IB2gkmtbYEbaV7_krjMNhu5YLj-4YgzGT8RXP7DES1IwW5bqbxCKOaOS/s320/IMG_3676.JPG" border="0" /> Since fall was on hold for a few days we decided to join our friends E, A, and their mommy at Nockamixon State Park for a jaunt around the Sterner's Mill Trail. This is the only trail in the park that is strictly for hikers - no horses - but hunting is permitted in the area so be sure to wear your orange if you go during hunting season.<br /><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLApMweIzuLrheU1RsVcDZajoS7wZfa-obXWOKA-zjBkCJkziV0v8rZ-bNl7hRk-birKVpgL4v-zQY4SmcWzq01L_qe9WCqSTQxjxJAFFodNDZ5Ze3tIvcxPP3V85ZPaTYxsZHPjINEn3k/s1600-h/IMG_3671.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402805665526578594" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLApMweIzuLrheU1RsVcDZajoS7wZfa-obXWOKA-zjBkCJkziV0v8rZ-bNl7hRk-birKVpgL4v-zQY4SmcWzq01L_qe9WCqSTQxjxJAFFodNDZ5Ze3tIvcxPP3V85ZPaTYxsZHPjINEn3k/s320/IMG_3671.JPG" border="0" /></a>I love the way this trail winds through the woods and over a very quaint little bridge (that the children love to play on of course) down to the lake. Once you reach the lake which is the perfect place to rest and snack, the trail continues along the lake for a short while and then pops you into this awesome hemlock forest. It reminds me of the woods in Norway and trolls. The first time Z and I hiked the trail we looked all over for trolls but didn't find any!<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheVyxJIFtJMqMZoEzRxMDLkuk_bTYAFBlccwGMEjHVbqkpONqBtkHO6XmuZaUmhYvhOJgeKYIlegBGDzbVnyHr6LI6m_vUbQEIuPp0evlBfsKInqo7ifX2ZbCIbu9dpgaZllcCG4KMqYzB/s1600-h/IMG_3675.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402805659093602834" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheVyxJIFtJMqMZoEzRxMDLkuk_bTYAFBlccwGMEjHVbqkpONqBtkHO6XmuZaUmhYvhOJgeKYIlegBGDzbVnyHr6LI6m_vUbQEIuPp0evlBfsKInqo7ifX2ZbCIbu9dpgaZllcCG4KMqYzB/s320/IMG_3675.JPG" border="0" /></a> It was a lovely day and the children enjoyed themselves. Our two youngest hikers enjoyed riding and even walked themselves for some of this hike. While many of the leaves were just starting to change there was plenty of color to keep us in awe.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbgXE12awNvp_Vf4gfg8169TRZHA2EOLgz3gYGhp6IQNmSCICv9-SqK0LXnebtfdH_-Ko-olft-XWWE5KkOUydi3JcGYq7cMBEdoFAkUYcDYXmhwA5pbSqILJ5DedmLJP1bpXvgaD1lqN_/s1600-h/IMG_3681.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402809136542546386" style="WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbgXE12awNvp_Vf4gfg8169TRZHA2EOLgz3gYGhp6IQNmSCICv9-SqK0LXnebtfdH_-Ko-olft-XWWE5KkOUydi3JcGYq7cMBEdoFAkUYcDYXmhwA5pbSqILJ5DedmLJP1bpXvgaD1lqN_/s320/IMG_3681.JPG" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoK3mKRAlK3UhG7kYnhuMelE-D1cv5qeqDVDxrfG_XC_nETSZgcXUmgo2-bpKuR4AZzoqKNJvKMoB6p4YxAv5pyj3-d7ki_FiGC1FfX35A8_ugrdnc3TJZDcCChXWRvgp5F2yCThBTJp9d/s1600-h/IMG_3677.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402809131202447426" style="WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoK3mKRAlK3UhG7kYnhuMelE-D1cv5qeqDVDxrfG_XC_nETSZgcXUmgo2-bpKuR4AZzoqKNJvKMoB6p4YxAv5pyj3-d7ki_FiGC1FfX35A8_ugrdnc3TJZDcCChXWRvgp5F2yCThBTJp9d/s320/IMG_3677.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />I think the children would tell you the best part of this hike is the abandoned picnic pavilion at the end. They all ran around for nearly an hour playing under the pavilion. It was a stage, a field, and so much more.<br /><div><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div>Just Add Naturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066259451880263000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5400207795121706308.post-16807240493277952692009-09-29T14:46:00.000-04:002009-10-06T14:57:10.731-04:00Exploratory Hike - Hemlock Point Trail - Green Lane Park<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2pElen7zjTwevbk6YBymuZb-nfDIO5FQEdg0mvkqPYtHA0ZNfEdWG78sTNRraJAXm-6vyc3WsYd3hU4kreVObLW8rySasFMKu01rEXhB4XxLah4VG_X_hsXxTm3ZAldpDm0n_J5NZXtCE/s1600-h/IMG_3647.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389562234798539506" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2pElen7zjTwevbk6YBymuZb-nfDIO5FQEdg0mvkqPYtHA0ZNfEdWG78sTNRraJAXm-6vyc3WsYd3hU4kreVObLW8rySasFMKu01rEXhB4XxLah4VG_X_hsXxTm3ZAldpDm0n_J5NZXtCE/s320/IMG_3647.JPG" border="0" /></a> Z, A, and I were joined by our cousins C and M (and their parents) for a great late afternoon hike at the Hemlock Point trail at <a href="http://www2.montcopa.org/parks/cwp/view,A,1516,Q,26377.asp">Green Lane Park </a>today. We had a wonderful hike and enjoyed a crisp and beautiful September afternoon exploring the trail and all that it had to offer. We brought along some sandwiches and sat out at the picnic table on the point to have our dinner.<br /><br />Fall was just starting to show its face as we hiked along the edge of the damn. As usual this hike introduced us to some fascinating new mushrooms/fungus along the trail. This was our favorite. I still need to order that field guide to mushrooms but we’ll probably never have another year like this if I do.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389561186570086562" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbO4eKNaCUpDhBMtoSSi_CB821uM21Rb-BIMVHEp_N786lCDO5ML7BBydARoA0cg56oJXXK14jMZ9K8OHTWWKHsdBBZ9787vndbcWb3Cx9oNrmkdYYVFaT8pqbL04Bbq2mqZphF2CsS7MO/s320/IMG_3638.JPG" border="0" />We've noticed a lot of acorns also during our hikes and decided that this year is probably a ‘mast year’ for the oak trees. Here’s an interesting <a href="http://www.collegian.psu.edu/archive/2005/10/10-25-05tdc/10-25-05dscihealth-03.asp">article</a> from <em>The Daily Collegian</em> (Penn State University's student newpaper) about what this means.<br /><br />Again, I say that Green Lane is a hidden gem in Northern Montgomery County that many people just don’t take advantage of. There are an abundance of trails and lots of other great outdoor activities available at this park. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389561193598910210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVcO6cGwd_xxeSdfSFPkLDXx-9vPFUYS4mhi4f_j8C6e15AW9ysBIQvUddsKJaNAOxkYH-XrwQj5NFs1pTdIXk_iTwyss__mtEIZETDH7OBg7G-d-P5vdUfsWQA5lmJybQba5gSd5XcWTA/s320/IMG_3646.JPG" border="0" /> I’m hoping to get back on schedule and hiking regularly during the week with the children. With vacations and doctor’s appointments we’ve had a hard time getting back into the swing of things but hopefully we’ll change that beginning soon.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389561199780124834" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTyM3lvmwnIbXVgRIaPbqBAR9NvIk6aqiqFN8JPZOMvkhTosgan9QnVSCcso0xRUfrKbiJaAa_xipBZwMlv71i7wnmTWk4Fzncpil-Y2VI6QDYSs9gWS_Dp2TgDTqdn-I6p1d3GrN3EkI_/s320/IMG_3649.JPG" border="0" />Just Add Naturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066259451880263000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5400207795121706308.post-80863790631247906762009-09-19T14:24:00.000-04:002009-10-06T14:35:31.217-04:00French Creek State Park<div><br /><div>We had a lovely hike at <a href="http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/parks/frenchcreek.aspx">French Creek State Park </a>and enjoyed the lovely wood path that took us uphill quite a bit. This was by far the most challenging hike we have pursued since the group started and it seemed that everyone faired well and enjoyed themselves. Those of us who stuck around to camp also had a wonderful time, even if our neighbors weren’t so considerate. Sorry there aren't many pictures but someone forgot to change the camera battery before we left.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389557115032961314" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwBR3g9ZXGYYqeJWzIOeWCr9ABLHopMAw0Tu0i4S8F3i2MSqGwpZXXQPONGX7wxqTsO1QXoLG0fFBSBWd1TKvy4jZGGfGFkmfAE2eMSs43f-iDjLgDhhs8U9fxloX48HJeIMEcDU4UkxjM/s320/IMG_3627.JPG" border="0" />The hike at French Creek started out with a very steep and rocky uphill section. We lost two of our younger members who eventually caught up with us and managed the rest of the trail very well. Fall was definitely in the air but it wasn’t really noticeable until we reached the area that I remember from a previous hike that was waist high with beautiful, full ferns. The ferns were thin and browned during this hike but still lovely. And with most of our hikes this year we encountered an increased number of mushrooms.<br /><br />The children did find some salamanders that they kept for the hike and tried, unsuccessfully, to take home with them. The boys on the hike found some dinosaur bones which were carried for much of the final part of the hike including the ascent down the long hill. Thanks to the daddy who helped them manage the longest of the bones down the steep hill.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389557125922356450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcJ1QIT_jv-urM_iYcD7R-NF0y9v5k52K5MzWSgGrTA1vF-fwAIBk4oLWE2RpNpd51SBym7dRI2hUMISjEoAMm35Kyqy-oVxmTxA_0sOJo0f0ye_WVQL35B-40CU_2vGYoLG-7tT_QCVdM/s320/IMG_3631.JPG" border="0" />All in all a beautiful day and probably the last of our afternoon hikes until next spring when the sunlight will be more in our favor. Our next hike will be at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary in Kempton on Saturday, October 24, 2009. We will meet at the mountain at 10 a.m. This should be a wonderful experience for all who plan to attend as the mountain will be alive with activity during the fall migration.</div></div>Just Add Naturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066259451880263000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5400207795121706308.post-58604991657731582152009-09-01T19:25:00.008-04:002009-09-01T19:45:45.088-04:00Exploratory Tuesday Hike - Whitetail Nature Trail - Green Lane Park<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiohr9Ql4lo5TWpbiR6vWJn9SkNkyWeIUE3YBkTMbtVDP4dzCVRFhqkDGNXN2atHbieb_Mvk9G0Msj8lbgVHzXjRBBITAs2MPSmbWZa1L6ddlEK2egTcL2QBiCDWTsvwsS92NVm-p0Tzdx7/s1600-h/IMG_3461.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376646856001466850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiohr9Ql4lo5TWpbiR6vWJn9SkNkyWeIUE3YBkTMbtVDP4dzCVRFhqkDGNXN2atHbieb_Mvk9G0Msj8lbgVHzXjRBBITAs2MPSmbWZa1L6ddlEK2egTcL2QBiCDWTsvwsS92NVm-p0Tzdx7/s320/IMG_3461.JPG" border="0" /></a> <div>Today’s hike brought us to the Whitetail Nature Trail at <a href="http://parks.montcopa.org/parks/cwp/view,A,1516,Q,26377,parksNav,%7C.asp">Green Lane Park</a>. I’ve lived ten minutes from this park for ten years now and have rarely done much more than drive by it. I’m sorry I haven’t visited more but now it will be one of our regular hiking destinations. A few years ago, I tried to hike one of the more popular horse trails which was a muddy mess. I still think it is probably best to stay away from these trails. However, the trail at the nature center and the Whitetail Nature Trail are worth the visit. And you just might get a glimpse at the resident bald eagles.<br /><br />The Whitetail Nature Trail is just a simple mile loop that starts as a wider path along the lake (don’t be discouraged by the picnic tables and trash cans it really does get better). Eventually the trail juts off and winds it way through the woods. There are several deep ravines as the trail works its way through the woods. There are also markers highlighting various interesting tree and plant species along the trail. I assume you can pick up a guide at the park office at the beginning of the trail but we didn't have one.<br /><br />We heard cicadas and a pileated woodpecker. We ran into a lot of mushrooms and fungus again during this hike. There were a lot of what appeared to be chanterelles (I wish I knew for sure what these mushrooms look like). We also found this green blue fellow and these little white ones. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376646866379158610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGlQNW_vXHje1yRAou3wwFQ-ZpAZw7Tn9YrUoPDA4B6cN96amGnGZqSgR_7OUBpfKX4VYYcZ-YMmnifUAXVMyybGdPbm2xMa4vP-m-SIyZoD9D2zH9qawAXdetBB9LXpH6yiu9l6-IGNpL/s320/IMG_3479.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376646876193342194" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvoERLOovcH_Gza99Pa4r7YJQVOcCca2tImeayFqoxrGTdNuEdU0BEBMqz0MGYkpBAvtPJIRLYIC-u5n5N35jovwHfxn3XyrlcIE4qp4o20Ysrv2EID75ofnMq4Q1YuRuckF2D8Bbojv7o/s320/IMG_3495.JPG" border="0" />On our way back to the car we spotted this fruiting trillium under a winterberry holly. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376646877966853682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVagMbWGmy03Vc2mjYrSIwgpImVOVuAnZKag5fXNXs3rqdCwMT34mFjcxqhdNxqTHbsnzi8Zb87uZwjH1NgCBynMxEIS_E0Fure3VnX2DXYetwGvC9daJNIg5_z0U7y1zJHM3XX_7Wa0wk/s320/IMG_3493.JPG" border="0" />If you have an extra hour, I would definitely give this trail a try. It does get a bit steep and somewhat rocky at times so good hiking shoes are probably wise. And if you have the time bring a picnic and enjoy the beautiful scenery after your hike.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376646886754915634" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoYjkjOEI2FvEAoB0qll12e7T_87Mt3RYzD68FkLed2RemCq52Elgwy91yHaEGu25VHseTJS3UxS0Kq_O7iYF38NXQIjQSz39xfKDyy9VsBx6Gs97nfIzXv6eQDmpOoFfVtV1aYUlz6YYk/s320/IMG_3475.JPG" border="0" /></div>Just Add Naturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066259451880263000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5400207795121706308.post-82906994466038495362009-08-22T06:01:00.000-04:002009-08-31T07:14:11.038-04:00Old Mill Trail at Nockamixon State Park<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSb1Y0nNNhyphenhyphen8dYBvA21i1Fo_TAruQwuvlqh9H7XOVWUla5KaFpQgx4hxeicTubNYqcEN1HIdn3v_GBa0hsD_ajJucZ33az4FYG0Q9VvU61BHY0K1QkbBZzlFJIDMUqnr1GlS1JaICpvibu/s1600-h/IMG_3200.JPG"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376082409574809154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSb1Y0nNNhyphenhyphen8dYBvA21i1Fo_TAruQwuvlqh9H7XOVWUla5KaFpQgx4hxeicTubNYqcEN1HIdn3v_GBa0hsD_ajJucZ33az4FYG0Q9VvU61BHY0K1QkbBZzlFJIDMUqnr1GlS1JaICpvibu/s320/IMG_3200.JPG" border="0" /></span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> </span><div><div><div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">We had another soggy hike at </span><a href="http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/parks/nockamixon.aspx"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Nockamixon State Park </span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">today. We ventured onto a small loop which is part of the Old Mill Trail. It didn’t rain while we were out hiking but there was plenty of mud to keep everyone happy and sufficiently coated (at least our feet) in goopy thick mud. We did have a chance to clean our feet as the children frolicked in the small stream just below the large stone wall which used to be part of one of the many grist mills that were found in the area. </span></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376080925931017650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhBROFMQpZp6Jj3Fvoya6eojN6-Prnubuzpg5DuSxkp207jUHGUC581hmIH1i1QzitsEisxyd8XWLfDdihXpQ9PRocAKWwy4FT7mn3rUOhTlCE4TWLJMG0y0fFZC9frELX5NxETMeP9LoA/s320/IMG_3214.JPG" border="0" /><br />Unfortunately and surprisingly, we didn’t encounter any interesting wildlife. What we have been running into a lot this summer though is fungus and mushrooms. At least all this rain is making something grow. This neat orange mushroom, which might have been an edible chanterelle, was one of the many that we encountered including some really bright red ones. </span></div><br /><div><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376080936867573650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPSqH-tud2rUr67xt6Iu_L_ZzOJawMlo6C0I_NeeX_asa1BG8WO8eMA4TzKlQ8koJdLxPIFyLW7OqzS5Rmg9nS8bY8vEr0Ony3PXXtGbSnH9HGfRXCoDxKQQmATEs6zMr64O_TIGpVoIu_/s320/IMG_3243.JPG" border="0" /><br />Our next group hike will be at </span><a href="http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/parks/frenchcreek.aspx"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">French Creek State Park </span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">on Saturday, September 19. For those who are interested, some of us are camping on Saturday night. We have made reservations on the A loop. We would love for you to join us if you are able. French Creek has wonderful hiking trails in mature forests with a lot of native vegetation and wildlife. It would be wonderful if you could join us.<br /><br />Check back to see where the next month takes us on our Tuesday Exploratory Hikes and let me know if you might like to join us.</span></div></div></div>Just Add Naturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066259451880263000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5400207795121706308.post-87412257433446385532009-08-18T11:45:00.000-04:002009-08-31T07:15:29.205-04:00Exploratory Tuesday Hike - Old Mill Trail - Nockamicon State Park<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh35-uOcU95QufHygIA4ylZdbfAeRQkAsyWpW4xJpOXdr-dqRrGBcOxjjX8hjnlt5WzTyGqmZU-F9fxVapJynG4F_ErLLo2fXIdLKsuxM3GZex210QtCsF7sfjOGAGLTEVo6WtvZFX2hTG8/s1600-h/IMG_3082.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371341691572009378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh35-uOcU95QufHygIA4ylZdbfAeRQkAsyWpW4xJpOXdr-dqRrGBcOxjjX8hjnlt5WzTyGqmZU-F9fxVapJynG4F_ErLLo2fXIdLKsuxM3GZex210QtCsF7sfjOGAGLTEVo6WtvZFX2hTG8/s320/IMG_3082.JPG" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">The children and I returned to the Old Mill Trail at </span><a href="http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/parks/nockamixon.aspx"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Nockamixon State Park </span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">to see if the poison ivy and fallen tree had been cleared from the trail. While the tree is still there the poison was moved aside so we will be inviting our friends from Just Add Nature to join us there on Saturday, August 22 at 10 a.m.<br /></span><div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">The cicadas serenaded us during most of our hike along this trail which winds through some woods and beside a creek that appears to have once been part of an old mill (thus the name). Near the edge of the creek we ran into this guy. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371338822844001762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcVaMwFhWDQ-NVO5fD0Msj0cYlUBBZNoCI5jK4nCxyHwl_u40JepbJeDHxJF7GTO386iR0Jky8bVMy7R-6ti14DfZXX7X6btyFDIr4lC2tyzKgvr3XhRBPmPcF0dA1L4wKX6as7b9-GaPb/s320/IMG_3096.JPG" border="0" />He promptly retreated back into the creek when I showed Z and A how he could pull his head and legs into his shell. A shrieked with delight as he hurried back down the bank. Who says turtles can't move fast? The creek seems to be one of the many that feed into Lake Nockamixon.</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">We also crossed through a meadow area with many native wildflowers blooming along its edges. There were some very tall thistle which were covered with bumble bees and butterflies.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371338833057377634" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCiR3zCxs00Qk3CSrfd0VjG0zvZh9x0Knj-pUop9xts7ppixEIPLapJO8-f7pZNH4OpmXKBoF1bWFbPXjck4nTiqeWMTpe7pRA7sbzj8ZFNg6PJgqBVkAff4Krh6BfR5oRoOIsfmtQYnEd/s320/IMG_3081.JPG" border="0" />There were also a few black-eyed susans, a lot of goldenrod, and one very lovely plant that I have yet to identify.</span></div><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371341702962765538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Wp1yejKz8yAiFODgiNe2jKBVqwkuz-_FtifF9G5zAvW2J8NDYYdPVfC37GgCCr_cHwyGo-o6BWFW2tF4FXfIPSyALOuR1BJqcL0F-KxQPGq9nbUG_6ZN-nqtY-a9bRty20rJvLVkEjfg/s320/IMG_3080.JPG" border="0" />This is definitely a keeper. It took us just over an hour to hike the whole loop and there was plenty to keep Z and A interested while we hiked. Remember to take your bug lotion if you go since there are also plenty of mosquitoes.</span></div>Just Add Naturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066259451880263000noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5400207795121706308.post-47273156033617212622009-07-25T16:44:00.000-04:002009-08-31T07:13:39.996-04:00Tohickon Valley Park<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHiZeS8oz-SKovsWt0rVNxu-CytmCviI7Wv9h_snKk5xYGgM5bl_C8eqX4SdKn0CYia6cR-Dy3Yio4g-KBLIdvnutfb6DhGLmd0HdvaHlvccyq9eapwjQHY_TYjKz_eLo8SUIGEHDDZuHY/s1600-h/creek.jpg"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365108015271202034" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 176px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHiZeS8oz-SKovsWt0rVNxu-CytmCviI7Wv9h_snKk5xYGgM5bl_C8eqX4SdKn0CYia6cR-Dy3Yio4g-KBLIdvnutfb6DhGLmd0HdvaHlvccyq9eapwjQHY_TYjKz_eLo8SUIGEHDDZuHY/s200/creek.jpg" border="0" /></span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Today we visited </span><a href="http://www.buckscounty.org/government/departments/parksandrec/Parks/Tohickon.aspx"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Tohickon Valley Park </span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">in Point Pleasant, Bucks County. Another hidden gem in the park system of Bucks County. It was a lovely day to venture through the woods and down the hill to the pristine Tohickon Creek ,which is considered a creek of exceptional value, for a lot of splashing and rock throwing.<br /><br />We weren't 100 yards onto the trail when we discovered a toad. And everyone wanted the chance to touch it. Down the step ravine we found ear fungus, fairy or gnome porches on a tree, more unidentified fungus and a lot of information about earth worms. In the creek, we discovered fingernail mussels and a really scary looking water spider.<br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5TAno3ChoVRDkMVR0WMhnID0hvXhRbOJnO7ninG81puHOpe3RpUr57OLpYYgo_fI2Dcr17A5b7AbB075HoyFaPXBHRcp8j39Q0kUut_WqO1tNtWP2BEi6-74eR8PHkXeKVq0sKoDJYm7Z/s1600-h/toad+viewing.jpg"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365108981083775250" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 168px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5TAno3ChoVRDkMVR0WMhnID0hvXhRbOJnO7ninG81puHOpe3RpUr57OLpYYgo_fI2Dcr17A5b7AbB075HoyFaPXBHRcp8j39Q0kUut_WqO1tNtWP2BEi6-74eR8PHkXeKVq0sKoDJYm7Z/s200/toad+viewing.jpg" border="0" /></span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br />A good hour was spent playing in the creek, throwing rocks, or just resting. It was a perfect day to visit a wonderful park. After hiking back up the hill, which took a bit longer then hiking down, some of us picnicked at the wooded grove and played at the playground before leaving for home.<br /></span><div></div><br /><div><br /><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Our next hike is scheduled for August 22 at either Nockamixon or Green Lane Park.<br /></span></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs0DtTLyJtVinRPN1pzqTxJ1xIgJfKJO3-p8WGa_1F6qCR6pjsbZtkeuuuSpzygX9mOBDLUwykpF7a4tGfV2TPEX1XXLgKDAr6loyUqrYrDYn78M3VO6COK17muML0XFbacBfwYhobDH4G/s1600-h/more+toad.jpg"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365109910653092274" style="WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 202px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs0DtTLyJtVinRPN1pzqTxJ1xIgJfKJO3-p8WGa_1F6qCR6pjsbZtkeuuuSpzygX9mOBDLUwykpF7a4tGfV2TPEX1XXLgKDAr6loyUqrYrDYn78M3VO6COK17muML0XFbacBfwYhobDH4G/s200/more+toad.jpg" border="0" /></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDJrBjOCrgpRn2crxVWlkl-E9Xl8Kefr1XM4LIE5GmddE6d0AeUYtyrXMngxSXLm78Ot3gBPHm0O-WRMdIK_zWe_rjLfiXRs4iTMqeQXuxYNiohxgx9iHChqtuxfSAqswDhKwU3XMms5_y/s1600-h/stone+throwing.jpg"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365105311594328930" style="WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 202px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDJrBjOCrgpRn2crxVWlkl-E9Xl8Kefr1XM4LIE5GmddE6d0AeUYtyrXMngxSXLm78Ot3gBPHm0O-WRMdIK_zWe_rjLfiXRs4iTMqeQXuxYNiohxgx9iHChqtuxfSAqswDhKwU3XMms5_y/s200/stone+throwing.jpg" border="0" /></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_t2QBUI8E1RAH-dD9JInoyHdjEuhfGj9yCLxByf6os6j0nDZIEqfH9l7STIiMB869sGfoFQlx8D6uihtHUkhbKjs2IWpXS299mPBct86ba1XPPaGhW2KkFtH02HZcTCz1JA9nTVeLloXi/s1600-h/rock+sitting.jpg"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365105318418187778" style="WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 202px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_t2QBUI8E1RAH-dD9JInoyHdjEuhfGj9yCLxByf6os6j0nDZIEqfH9l7STIiMB869sGfoFQlx8D6uihtHUkhbKjs2IWpXS299mPBct86ba1XPPaGhW2KkFtH02HZcTCz1JA9nTVeLloXi/s200/rock+sitting.jpg" border="0" /></span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br /><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br /></span></div><div><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div>Just Add Naturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066259451880263000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5400207795121706308.post-88839529344377499702009-06-20T16:21:00.000-04:002009-08-31T07:15:01.272-04:00Ringing Rocks in the Rain<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTVfR_CdoOCWodbDmv75_TfWNCxfDCDO8WxNxji2eKPDC2G6VJy-0n7-Ku_tiEYkHvtvycq9OgWFcyCRKBZ_l46fk5M7RP6d_v9DPX56LAxW5hEnbkuzYliAiqc_xGB7ywDUqCapwoyNLL/s1600-h/ringing+rocks.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365094523240971282" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 307px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTVfR_CdoOCWodbDmv75_TfWNCxfDCDO8WxNxji2eKPDC2G6VJy-0n7-Ku_tiEYkHvtvycq9OgWFcyCRKBZ_l46fk5M7RP6d_v9DPX56LAxW5hEnbkuzYliAiqc_xGB7ywDUqCapwoyNLL/s320/ringing+rocks.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Our June hike was a much anticipated one but unfortunately the weather didn't cooperate. Although those who joined us had a wonderful but wet time. We ventured to </span><a href="http://www.buckscounty.org/government/departments/parksandrec/Parks/RingingRocks.aspx"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Ringing Rocks Park</span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> in Upper Black Eddy, Bucks County.<br /><br />The boulder field at Ringing Rocks has an unusual quality that attracts visitors from near and far. Among other things, the rocks don't just thud but rather ring. There is much speculation about the rocks and the origin of the field. I'll leave that to your imagination.<br /><br />After leaving the boulder field we ventured down the muddy path to the largest waterfall in Bucks County. Given the amount of rain that fell that day, I would say we were lucky enough to witness it at a very high level. It was quite impressive and lovely.<br /><br />Sadly, it was time for our hike to end but we continued our day with a potluck dinner where the sun eventually came out and we happily played in the backyard.<br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTVfR_CdoOCWodbDmv75_TfWNCxfDCDO8WxNxji2eKPDC2G6VJy-0n7-Ku_tiEYkHvtvycq9OgWFcyCRKBZ_l46fk5M7RP6d_v9DPX56LAxW5hEnbkuzYliAiqc_xGB7ywDUqCapwoyNLL/s1600-h/ringing+rocks.jpg"></a>Just Add Naturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066259451880263000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5400207795121706308.post-67536641701440019822009-05-01T16:12:00.000-04:002009-08-31T07:14:30.100-04:00Just Add Nature Introduction<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGl7AWZ1dtiPk8zadH-XMjwZ2f7XLmXk03jv9RB-yKWVEIG5Wmdlo0fzflyx8-NvfUQ8YO9qBvi5JPk0cJKIKMMZk2BZ0fpxOQopBTS_0AP4kihB1UQBPRlNh_GCI8L9hcsIHY5sm1blDO/s1600-h/IMG_2302.JPG"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365091594530724178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGl7AWZ1dtiPk8zadH-XMjwZ2f7XLmXk03jv9RB-yKWVEIG5Wmdlo0fzflyx8-NvfUQ8YO9qBvi5JPk0cJKIKMMZk2BZ0fpxOQopBTS_0AP4kihB1UQBPRlNh_GCI8L9hcsIHY5sm1blDO/s320/IMG_2302.JPG" border="0" /></span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> </span><div align="center"></div><span style="color:#009900;"></span><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><span style="color:#009900;">“Let Nature be your teacher.” - William Wordsworth</span><br /><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Inspired by Richard Louv, “Last Child in the Woods”, we are a group of families who meet regularly to allow our children to explore nature and the outdoors together. We are inspired by and in awe of nature and want our children to learn to love and appreciate the wonder that is our world.<br /><br />Children of all ages are welcome. We have runners, walkers, and riders (backpacks/slings/sometimes carried but unfortunately not strollers) and would love for you to join us. We visit both state and county parks in Bucks, Lehigh, and Montgomery Counties, Pennsylvania. In the future, we are planning a visit to Hawk Mountain Sanctuary during the fall migration and may tackle a small portion of the Appalachian Trail. We have also planned a camping trip for early fall.<br /><br />We have hikes scheduled for August 22, September 19, and October 24. We will likely continue meeting through the late fall and winter as well. Additionally, we may add other fun outdoor activities to our schedule, if there is an interest. For more information, please email outdoorswithkids@gmail.com. </span></div>Just Add Naturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07066259451880263000noreply@blogger.com0