cooper-schmitz's Journal

Went on a walk that began in the new MDC Park next to Margot Connell's Rec Center and took me around the Res. It was very hot on my walk, and my goal some of the time was to find the spots with the most shade. The temperature felt like the mid to high 70s, so it was beautiful out. Even though I found a lot of cultivated plants, there was some other wild species that were growing on the hill just outside of the path. I really found the American Pokeweed's color to stand out amongst the green plants around. It was a very vibrant red that I really enjoyed looking at. Also, I loved the Low Smartweed (as identified by iNaturalist) since I do not really find purple plants around. They had great coloring to them and it was definitely my favorite plant on the walk. My favorite animal on the other hand were the two Swans that I found looking for food. They would swim for a little but, and then duck their heads under the water for a minute or two before resurfacing. I spent some of my time fondly watching them and I enjoyed it thoroughly. Finally, I ran into these Wood Asters at the end of my hike that had an array of yellows, reds, and purples. Overall, I found my walk around the Res relaxing, as I it was my first time walking, not running, around it.