The leaves are slowly changing colors as the hue of summer is crawling by like a tortoise. The foliage is still green, but rebels have emerged, yellow and brown tints. As the days get chilly the will of life seems to weaken. Once packed by cars, Grey Rocks Conservation Area now feels empty, though dedicated kayakers are still embracing the waters of Newfound and the regular cohorts of people with their dogs are still lively.
I visited Sugarloaf Ridge-Goose Pond Conservation Area again and led a Nature Mindfulness Hike. The participants were excited and looking forward to practicing mindfulness. Being in nature on a silent hike gives hikers a chance to absorb more of their surroundings. I chose to lead an event on mindfulness to help people foster a better connection with nature. There was no talking, but the peace we found atop the hill spoke for itself. The participants had a look of satisfaction, and everyone was smiling. I hope they enjoyed hiking to the top, engaging in little aspects of the hike and the shifting tree tops.
I thought I knew a lot about Newfound Lake but I was wrong, I feel like I officially became a local after learning about the history of Newfound Lake aboard an NLRA EcoTour. Scott, the EcoTour pilot, wove a beautiful story of the history of development and ecology around Newfound Lake. While I could see many newly developed homes around the shoreline during the tour, it was heartening to see that many shorefront property owners have clearly maintained a buffer of natural vegetation, which is the best way to maintain water quality. Some homeowners have even installed stormwater management projects facilitated by the NLRA and the Youth Conservation Corps program.
Working with the NLRA has taught me to engage the community through guided adventures and volunteer days, inspire and motivate kids through the TTCC days, and protect the lake through lake hosting and collecting weekly water quality readings. In the five months that I have been here, I have strengthened my skills and developed an in-depth understanding of a community-oriented nonprofit like the NLRA.
Lastly, the tables have turned. My morning commute by motorbike isn’t so warm and comfortable, more like cold. Although the morning rides do work better than coffee, and offer a moment for reflection.