springtime at the park

the first thing I saw upon entering the park

What can I say?  My kids like creeks.  

This particular park has one that stretches the length of the park.

Elizabeth now has a creek rock to add to her collection.

Was this your favorite part of childhood too?

I grew up mostly at the beach, and still

I longed for the creek.

Finn prefers the pathways 

where he can keep an eye on his siblings...

and try to outrun his parents.

funky old stump

white oak

signature wood of the "mission style" furniture

yellow poplar (also known as tulip tree)

highly valued for the fact it grows 80+ ft before branching

black tupelo (part of the dogwood family)