Ch-ch-ch-changes...

My place was so amazing today! I went just in time for the sunset... keep reading for pictures! I also brought a friend along; it was fun to be able to share my phenology spot with someone else (plus it was a good way to get pictures of myself!). My friend also lent me his trusty North American Trees book, which proved to be a helpful resource in identifying trees around my place. I found five common trees around my area. Here they are!

Arbor Vitae (Cedar)

American Elm (This was a hard one because it wasn't on my sheet!)

Red Pine (This tree looks like it should be in a Dr. Suess book!)

Red Pine bark... so cool!

My buddy Red Maple and I with my trusty North American Trees book!

White Pine

Looking for trees was super exciting... but my site in general was awesome this week because it has changed SO MUCH since the last time I was there. The lake was completely frozen as far as I could see and I walked out onto it to a little island in the middle. From there, I watched the sunset over the Adirondacks and contemplated the life in my area. There is so much history and excitement going on in Oak Ledge, which was especially evident on this day. There were people out with their family and friends and dogs, birds flying overhead, animal (dogs... I checked) tracks in the snow, and amazing ice patterns everywhere I looked. This visit was exactly what I needed as a break from the busy week I've had. I haven't seen much animal life, but I'm excited for what's to come. I also learned some history about my site. It used to be a resort with a bunch of bungalows all around the cove. This is probably what the chimney is from! I also learned that the rock all around my site is Monkton Quartzite. All in all, the changes I found on this visit have only made me more excited for the weeks and changes to come! Here are some more photos to share my awesome visit with you all.

Walking on the ice

Me in front of my spot!

:-)