Winter Walk 2012

 

December 1, 2012 we took a winter walk along William H. Powers Lake, formerly known as Wolf Lake.  We met at a central location and walked to different interesting points along the lake. Some of the attractions were the upcoming visitor’s center, the Nike missile, and the damage done to trees caused by beavers. We discussed the wildlife that inhabits the area and some of the new species that are being sighted.  We discussed the millennium reserve project as well as the benefits of connecting with nature. I felt it was an enjoyable walk; the weather was beautiful that day. I enjoyed the participants as well as they all something to share, whether it was about the area itself or the wildlife they have noticed around their homes. It was fun swapping stories and made for interesting conversation.  After the walk some of the participants joined us back at the SETF for hot chocolate and cookies it was the perfect end to an exciting afternoon.

 

 

Hard to Believe It's December 2nd

Perhaps Sunday wasn't unseasonably warm after all, but rather what the weather has in store for us from now on.  Who would have thought it was December 2nd the way the thermometer was  climbing into the lower 60's.  That kind of temperature called for time out of doors in the form of an excursion to Calumet Park.  An opportunity to stroll along the lake with my grand-daughter in tow. 

Few Chicagoans get to experience the lake the way we do on the Southeast side.  While every square inch of lakefront seems to be occupied up North, it's not true down here.  After "beach" season, the park is all but vacant.  You can ride your bike, jog or take a stroll without having to dodge between other pedestrians.  It's the prefect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and at this time of the year, the holiday season too. 

"Here a goose, there a goose, every where a goose goose."

 

 

I was surprised they  let me get this close.

 

 

 

Serenity.

 

Brown fallen leaves against grass that was
 still very green.

 

 

State Line Power Plant closed, but still  rather imposing.

 

 

Looking across the misty water at the beach.

 

Due to the low level of the lake, a part of the bottom I have
never, ever seen exposed.

 

 

 

How low can it go???

 

 

Like age rings on a tree, so telling are the worn
 lines along pier's pylons.

 

 

Enjoying the fall-winter-spring like air.