Learn about What is Happening at Belwin Now that the Season Is Reaching Its Peak
“To say it was a beautiful day would not begin to explain it.
It was that day when the end of summer intersects perfectly with the start of fall.”
– Ann Patchett
The day begins. It’s a bright morning with sunrise coming a bit later now. The bird chorus is less urgent with fewer choir members chiming in. The crisp air is enticing and energizing. The slight breeze wafts over me and whispers “fall.”
I exit my car and quietly close the door, not wanting to disturb this early morning magic.
I step onto the trail and at once feel my body soften, my breathing becomes deeper. There is a small inner smile spreading to all parts of my body. It is the end of the frenetic field season and finally, now, there is room for walking and looking to see the result of our hard summer work. It looks good.
The essence of the prairie is on full display at this time of year. The prairie comes into its fullness and welcomes us to fall. As I make my way along the path I am greeted by my old friends. Big bluestem and Indian grass are flowering and bend down to greet me, creating a lush canopy of green. I run my fingers along the seed heads and laugh. Such a simple act that brings so much joy.
My pace quickens as I approach the top of the far east rise. My reason for coming awaits me. As I round the corner I smile, not just a little smile, but a cheek-to-cheek smile of unadulterated JOY! The liatris or blazing star is glowing in the sun. This handsome butterfly magnet has not been this prolific here since 2018 and we are entering the peak of its blooming cycle. A myriad of insects are busy finding sustenance from each of these flowers as well as the neighboring plants nearby.
At my feet is a clump of creamy colored flowers with shades of pink, blossoming in concentric circles around the stem. I reach out to touch it. Is the stem square? Yes, it is a member of the mint family. I crush a few leaves and am rewarded with the strong smell of spotted mint, a favorite of pollinators like bees.
I turn slowly in a circle and see many other members of the tallgrass prairie family.
Showy goldenrod, the ground cover of pussy toes, side oats grama grass, whorled milkweed and grey goldenrod. All dancing in the breeze, showing off their colors and textures, a delight for the eyes and the soul.
Crows calling from the west begin to bring my reverie to a slow end.
I retreat much as I came.
Quietly.
Gratefully.
We are so blessed to have this place, this space to come to for whatever we need — renewal, contemplation, companionship with a friend or just a simple walk.
I would encourage each of you to find the time to visit Stagecoach Prairie in the coming weeks. Fall is upon us. The prairie is at peak beauty. Immerse yourself in it. You will walk away with a smile.
Attend an upcoming event with Lynette as your guide! Visit our events page for more information.
