A Remembrance

February 11, 2014

Ice Meadows of the Hudson River,

Warrensburg, NY

While at Snake Rock  --  I begin remembering a hot summer’s day in this very place –

And remembering a friend who is no longer with us.

I did not know him as well as the others in the Thursday Naturalists -- who have walked with him for many a verdant mile –- but will miss him none the less.

On that day, we all spent the morning on this side of the river,
happily clambering over rocks

And enjoying the sights both near and far.

Win liked to go off on to one side, or up ahead, blazing his own trail.

At high noon, we gathered for a picnic lunch in the shade of Snake Rock.

It was cooler here, and the view upriver was grand.

After lunch, Jackie and Win and I drove to the other side of the river, 

across from Snake Rock,

to the forest where the lichens grow.

Then, it was high summer – full of summer’s delights.

There were several flowers and geologic features Win was eager to see,
and we were more than happy to show him.

I imagine that at times, Win could be as prickly as a thistle

Although he never hesitated to patiently answer my unscientific questions about plants,

And he even let me capture him having a little fun.
(of course, this is the only way to get those great macro shots of tiny flowers !)

I will miss getting to know him better,

And I hope he is off blazing new trails.