Marsh Marigold is taking hold along the creeks.  photo by Jonathan Schechter



When the world seems just a bit too crazy and fast paced there are ways to gain a moment of peace and calmness. A walk in the moist woods of spring reminds me the ways of nature are timeless and predictable. That can bring a degree of comfort. I met three old friend of springs gone by on a hike today through the South Unit of the Bald Mountain State Recreation Area: marsh marigold, bloodroot and skunk cabbage.  And that meadering hike of about five miles or so in a 'blank place' on the crowded map of Oakland County reminded me of the equally timeless words of Aldo Leopold.  "To those devoid of imagination, a blank place on the map is a useless waste; to others, the most valuable part." 


Bloodroot: An early spring wildlflower of the forest with a rich history. 
Photo by Jonathan Schechter

A sea of skunk cabbage thrives in moist soil along the trail.  photo by Jonathan Schechter