The beauty of this Lotus greeted me this morning at Lichenwood Pond. I was taken by surprise as I have never experienced a Lotus bloom this early in the summer. Like every green thing this year, the Lotus seems to be in a hurry. Several more buds have emerged from the water, and I expect more to follow. This post eclipse energy is full of new beginnings and positive energy. What a great start to my day.
By 9am, my friend Lynn came by and we headed over to Stonehouse Pond. This special place is less than 2 miles from my door. How silly of me not to have visited before today! It was completely enchanting and full of peace and beauty.
Carved out of stunning outcroppings of granite and quartz, the water is completely clear and stocked with trout. White Pond Lilys colonize the water's edge. Stonehouse Pond is a conservation area that includes an access road and parking area and approximately 250 acres, including the pond and surrounding forests, swamps, and peatlands. At present the trails are unimproved, but oh, are they ever gorgeous! There is a great diverity of plant life.
You can bet that I will return in Spring to see the Bluebead Lily bloom.
I was blessed to see Wintergreen flowering all along the trail.
The path is winding, meandering up and down hill, and crossed with fallen trees. Streams trickle, adding to the music of the Wood Thrush and Loon. As you follow the pond's edge, you are making your way to the impressive large granite ledge.
Past the mushrooms, past the Sassafras babies, Trailing Arbutus clings to the sloping woodland trailside, and on the water side of the trail, the White Pond Lily floats in peace.
And then, the massive outcropping presents itself.
We climbed to the heights and had the pleasure of this pond displayed below us. My fear of high places was suspended for a time as my eyes took it all in. I am a pond lover. Lichenwood Pond is special, but oh, Stonehouse Pond, you are one of Nature's most beautiful places.