Wetlands Walk

In an attempt to get started exercising, I decided to start walking...again.  I went to a local wetlands preserve.  I had taken pictures there a few months ago when there was still several inches of snow on the ground (in March!) and while I was there, the snow started up again.  I got some great pictures on my wintry walk, but to see the preserve alive again was great.

 I stopped at a new lookout that wasn't there last time I visited.  It's a nice expanse of fresh red cedar that leads to an amazing deck.  The newness of it wasn't lost on me.  I don't think there have been many visitors as of yet because in addition to the strong cedar scent, I didn't see any footprints.  The only signs of previous visitors was the occasional milky splash of the birds who obviously called this home long before I got here.  The area is populated by native wildflowers, birds, insects, and (I'm sure) plenty of creatures hiding under the brush, waiting for me to leave.  It is also dotted with benches donated in honor of local residents by their loved ones.  It was one such bench which welcomed me, allowing me to sit comfortably, soak up some sun and get a grand view of this little corner of my world, a wonderful reminder that not getting a real vacation this year isn't so bad.  

The centerpiece of the new deck/lookout is this platform which is also a great place to rest--to sit, lie down or play a game of Scrabble.  It's inscription intrigued me: 

Whoever Judy Parker was, she must have had great friends.  They supplied the respite I needed on a stressful day and for that, I thank them.

 One can only hope to have friends who love you enough to dedicate a bench in the wilderness to you. A quick Google search told me that Judy was a local educator who spent her last 15 years before retirement working with seniors, ensuring they had food, transportation, care and company.  She must have done a stellar job!  Contributions were requested, in her honor, to the Central Park Wetlands Project.  And thus, the bench was born.  Heavily scented red cedar, stretching into nowhere, giving me the chance to breathe in the fresh air, warm my face and watch the birds and butterflies dip, dive and soar.  It was by far the best hour of the week.  And for this, I have Judy Parker to thank, the lady with so many loving friends. 

Here's to Judy, and the amazing life she must have lived.