A new phase

I have always gardened alone (in terms of my personal garden--the college habitat is quite another thing). Recently, though, some neighborhood children saw me removing some grass from a soon-to-be-expanded bed and asked if they could help; it turns out that a fifth-grader up the block is fascinated with plants, insects, and amphibians.When my flower bulb shipment arrives in a week or so, four enthusiastic volunteers under the age of twelve will be helping to dig the holes, place the bulbs, and spread the mulch.

They also brought me five toads to add to the amphibian population in the walled garden. This is a very useful gift.

Drowning

...in work, that is; the college is getting its money's worth out of me and my slowed-down mind this last semester. Getting through the papers takes longer than it used to. (Maybe it is not such a good idea to have students writing in all classes nearly every day--except that four of my classes are indeed writing classes. Hmmm...)

I am indeed still alive, and earlier this month actually got away to Cuyahoga Valley National Park near Akron. This local gem requires more exploration, but here is a shot of Indigo Lake, a restful spot that will definitely get a second visit.