The Compost's Turn

Today I didn't leave the yard. Lovely day with enough sun to warm the skin. My energy is still low and needed to be conserved. So, what needed attention out there? Today it was the compost's turn for some care. Recent rains, much needed rains, left the leafy masses overwet. A good turning with the long fork, folding in the dry spots, allowed more breathing room. It's the end of January here and the earthworms are active.

Pale Lichen

I gathered myself for a stroll through a forest. It had been some time since I last walked the trails and old roadbeds of the Hillsborough section of Duke Forest northwest of Town. I walked alone today. Fleece jacket and ballcap against a light breeze. Over the scrape of leaf and my own sniffles I heard the deer break away in the distance. Up the hill to the old Quarry. Dense pines dwarfed by sheer number swayed in the canyon. I stayed on the lip, ducked under branch, stepped lightly across the pale lichen looking for a better view. My tired senses reminded me not to try too hard. I saw it the way it was today, the way I was today.

I'll go see!

I have a cold...or it has me. Either way, I'm trying to shake it. I'm leaving the house to see whatsitlikeout. Should be back in a couple hours...we'll see.