Summer is Short & Sweet: A Four Season Challenge
Today, I was wordsmithing some descriptions for our GeoChallenge game that is part of the Virginia State Parks' smartphone app and I was trying to figure out how to pique our reader's interest in this one particular tree we have at York River State Park called "The Majestic Oak" and here is what I wrote….
"From Virginia Indians and Colonial Explorers to America's agricultural heyday and the modern conservation movement, this tree has waxed and waned with the seasons of America's changing lifestyles. Spend a moment under her shade in the summer, marvel at her array of colors in the fall, wonder at the strength and stretch of her branches in winter, or find hope in her pale green shoots in spring."
And then I got to thinking. Most of us visit Virginia State Parks are open year-round.
The Majestic Oak in winter–worn, battle scarred, but still beautiful!
I challenge you to find a favorite tree this summer and take your picture, then come back in the fall, in the winter, and again in the spring and take your picture each time with the same tree.
Breathe in the difference in the air each season, feel how the sun still warms your face as the monthspass by,open your eyes wide to catch all the different colors, and stretch to see the tallest branches and how they've grown that year. Take a moment to savor the bittersweet passing of time and how, no matter how brief our time, we must take care that our trees stand for the next generation.
Make your fall, winter, or spring reservations now by calling 1-800-933-PARK. Most campgrounds stay open through the first weekend in December and re-open the first of March. Cabins, lodges, and day-use parks are open year-round.