I call this: Wild Cucumber in Old Apple Tree While Garbage Bag Looks On
How do you pronounce mullein??
One winter I saw an otter appear out of a snow bank and slide into the creek.
And so now I always look and look. But no otters today.
There are bits of green though. This surprises me almost as much as otters.
And the way shadows play in late afternoon sun.
And the dashes of red never get old.
But after a while, walking aimlessly in the woods, things turn a bit Blair Witch Project and I remember this is where someone just the other day said they saw coyotes looking peckish. A little too hastily I turn back for safer ground, nearly tripping over some villainous ankle-grabbing vine.
And so, back in the civilized world… 
… I see something glistening up ahead…. A bit of magic afoot??
But no.
Just more civilization. 
These trees were planted the year we moved in. Some were inches tall. 
The trees have fared better than the sign.
And the signs of civilization fare better than… well, you know.
♦
“Whenever we give up, leave behind, and forget too much, there is always the danger that the things we have neglected will return with added force.”
—Carl Jung
Matilda Magtree 
Yes! .
(:
hm, I’ve only read mullein, not heard it said. oh, people.
across the pond, this is interesting: http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2013/feb/22/red-squirrel-pine-marten-survival
I used to say “mullane” but then I was corrected, and told it was “mullen”…
As for squirrels… I do hope they’ll be allowed to work it out for themselves… When we had friends visiting from England years ago, they went mad every time they saw a grey squirrel, as if they had none over there. Sounds like things have changed.
Thanks for sharing your walk, Carin, and for the fine quote from Dr. Jung at the end. The forgotten does tend to return in surprising ways.
Thank you, Maureen. Walks are always nicer for your company!
So pleased to be able to take a walk on the wild side (with bits of civilization) with you, Carin!
No bear bells needed this time!