Steward Joe Neumann is planning a lot of work at Willow Springs Woods in coming months, trying to work his way east toward Old Country Lane and connect to Spears Woods. On this day we were closer to the parking lot, mostly clipping reed canary seed heads in a section that was brush-cut last winter. Continued rain meant more fungi - thanks to Brian for spotting a nice patch, and thanks to Jimmy who's been showing up at numerous sites. We appreciate the help!
Sunday June 24, Swallow Cliff Woods South
First off, thanks to volunteer Jesse Solis, who doubled our crew size by bringing his son Jesse, friend Al, and Al's sons Joseph and Nicholas to help. We walked the path to the north lot, pulling weeds and clipping seed heads along the way, and were rewarded (?) with a patch of Canada thistle pleading to be clipped.
Added bonus; we got to climb the stairs, in our long pants and long sleeves, on a sunny summer morn. Jesse and his group were going back to the stairs for a workout when they left us - a big tip of the hat to them!
Requiem for an elm
Our neighbors directly across the street had a big beautiful American elm on their front lawn. Until 6 am yesterday, when the trunk split down the middle and half the tree crashed to the ground. It was the only surviving elm on our block (we lost two about 20 years ago, already diseased when we bought our lot).
Jim and Michelle had this tree injected, kept it trimmed, did everything they could to nurture it. They've fought the good fight for more than 30 years. Sadly, it wasn't enough. The remaining half of the tree is being removed later today. Gonna miss that tree, because it's a beauty, also because it throws a whole lot of shade on our home in the afternoon.
Sure, it's just a tree. And triple-chocolate fudge is just another ice cream flavor.