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I had the pleasure of helping out at the Dunham Public Library Book Sale fundraiser in January. While straightening the tables and shelves I couldn't help but notice some titles that interested me and so came away with two bagsful of books that will eventually find their way back to the library for next year's sale. One, however, may stay with me. It is titled quite simply, John Muir. John Muir was an Irish immigrant who had insatiable curiosity about the world around him. His interest in the natural world led him to California where he was spellbound by the Sequoias, Yosemite Valley and all the mountains and valleys of the western United States. Through his efforts Yosemite National Park was established on October 1, 1890. His legacy has given us natural space and wilderness areas throughout America to enjoy by hiking, biking, nature watching and camping. Here are a few of his words:
Come to the woods, for here is rest. There is no repose like that of the green deep woods. Here grow the wallflower and the violet. The squirrel will come and sit upon your knee, the log-cock will wake you in the morning. Sleep in forgetfulness of all ill. Of all the upness accessible to mortals, there is no upness comparable to the mountains. .....John Muir
It is February and the green is replaced by the repose of white drifts of snow blanketing the hills, but the upness of the mountains is still there calling to us and beckoning that we come.
Lu Blanchard is semi-retired and spends free time with family, reading, dancing, singing and enjoying outdoor activities.
Dianna Morris lives in Marcy and fell in love with the woods as a young girl. She finished climbing the Adk 46 high peaks in August 2012, and is now working on finishing the Northeast 111 - climbing the mountains over 4000 ft in NY, NH, VT, and ME.
Harold Pier taught chemistry at Utica College for 40 years and was an avid biker, hiker and skiier after retiring in 2000. He contributed to this blog from its inception in March 2012 until his death in October 2012.
