Once again, last week we found ourselves on the North Country National Scenic Trail. This section passed within the 716-acre W. K. Kellogg Experimental Forest, about a twenty-minute drive from our house. No, we have nothing to do with studying trees through MSU, but we certainly appreciate them.

Within the forest are several trails open to the public, as well as various activities throughout the year, including the sale of maple syrup which they tap and boil down on site (yum).

For the past couple of years, they’ve planted near the office a butterfly garden, more specifically, a Monarch Waystation for migrating monarchs. This year the garden has flourished, and certainly meets the need.

Here is a shot I posted on FaceBook to let people guess what it could be. Now that you know it came from the Experimental Forest, perhaps you have a clearer starting point. (Confirm your answer below.)

Unfortunately, my bum knee kept us from hiking too far this time. Although, we did walk beyond what we had originally planned because, you know, we just love the woods! Even in pain, I need to be in there. There is something very soothing in the quiet of the forest, draining away so many troubles of the world.

Along Augusta Creek are a few places where they have placed benches. I’m considering blowing up one of these to stir my summer memories during winter. Perhaps I could even place near it a tiny bubbling fountain to sound like rushing water. Ah.

But then again, I love winter hikes as well, especially since they are sans mosquitoes.

And to answer the mystery photo question above, yes, it is refracted light off the creek running under the covered bridge. I believe there is even duckweed floating past as well.

May you also make lovely visual summer memories, and perhaps later recall them for settings in your own stories, or simply remember for your own pleasure.