I haven’t had time to go through my photos from Scotland and England much, but I did have time to take a few bike rides since I’ve returned. It was dry and warm in Londinium and Caledonia, and has been relatively cold and rainy here in the Pinelands, a reversal of expectations. Scotland is famous for having cold, wet summers. Ours here in New Jersey looks to abruptly change from that to sunny mid-80s next week.
The Mountain Laurels have come into bloom while I was off exploring the other side of the Atlantic, and I’m grateful I didn’t miss them. Their blossoms are little faerie cups, pink or white pattern china for the pollinators to sip their tea. Their scent is delicate and not overwhelming, and the blooms last for weeks, speckling the forest with color from afar, that rewards a closer look for fine details.
I found myself stopping to enjoy being in their midst. Black Run Preserve is a good place to see them, but they are everywhere in southern New Jersey, including the trails at the community college where I ride in the mornings. For bigger blooms, the trails in Wharton Forest near Batsto Village are pleasant walks lined with these flowers.
At Black Run, you may run into a mated pair of Red-tailed Hawks, like I did. I saw the big female first, and didn’t notice the smaller male until he flew off. It’s a good spot to see a variety of birds like Pine Warblers and Eastern Bluebirds, but this time of year you get a lot of Eastern Towhees and occasional woodpeckers, usually Downy and Red-bellied. Tree Swallows over the water, Turkey vultures and crows over the old airport. Occasionally you’ll get a Bald Eagle, too.
I met a bumblebee who was glad they didn’t miss the mountain laurels, too.
I rode in the rain the other day, part of my resolution to not have the good sense to come in out of the rain. It means I leave my glasses in the car and stay off my phone when I’m outside, which is good for the mood.
Next time, I’ll share my visit to the Roman Baths, Chatsworth estate, and Solsbury Hill—with Eurasian Skylarks, Rooks, and waterfowl.
Until then, Go Outside. The turtles are waiting:
I like this message: "Until then, Go Outside. The turtles are waiting:" I can get onboard with this!
I love your description of the blossoms as little faerie cups! It’s easy to notice these kinds of little things when we travel but harder when home I think.