Spring is wildflower season in Tennessee, so took some rambles last month to Short Springs Natural Area (Tullahoma), Cedars of Lebanon State Park, and Beaman Park (Ashland City). Couple guided walks, several solo rambles. I’m always amazed at these naturalists, who can identify every plant and flower, tell you if it’s edible, what it smells like, if it’s rare, what medicinal purposes it has, etc. etc. This is a lost art and obviously one the Native Americans have worked to keep alive for generations. Growing up in the suburbs of Chicago, it’s like magic to me.
River cane, mountain laurel, spiderwort, flox white, prairie clover, juniper butterfly, skullcap, shooting star, yellow sunny bellies. “Oh, hear that tree frog,” the ranger says, “means it’s going to rain.” It’s magic. Plus, being out there noticing rejuvenates me, not just physically, but with the notion that everything is going to be alright, that there is so much bigger than our trivial pursuits. Enjoy.
Doug Hoekstra 