I really enjoy my morning walks in the woods along the lake. Never once have I seen another person on these walks. I must admit that is a pleasure. Not that sharing nature wouldn't be fun, for sharing anything is usually better than being alone. There is a fine line of distinction though. It is fun to share nature with those who also appreciate and enjoy it. That is somewhat of an issue these days.
I do love the solitude of walking along the woods; stopping to take pictures here and there; sitting on a fallen log to see what comes along when I sit quietly and wait; and discovering something new on every walk. These solitary walks are a joy. Selfishly, I know I would not want to share that time on any kind of regular basis. That "alone time" is so peaceful. Ocassionally sharing that time would be fine for I do enjoy showing others the joys of nature and the little treasures that can be found in even a short walk in the woods can bring.
But there is another aspect of all this. The morning walks in the woods are refreshing in so many ways, but that is only a small part of enjoying nature.
I really want to be around others who share my joy at discovering a new trail; seeing a new species of bird (and actually know what species it is); and who want to learn more. It would be wonderful to find others with whom to share some of these experiences. I know there must be some in the area. We nature lovers are everywhere. :-) I decided to check out the Internet for chapters of the Audobon Society, birder groups, etc.
Were I in a larger city, I am sure I could find a group of nature people, but it is a little harder deep in the piney woods. I have found a couple of groups in Tyler, but that is an hour away. While it is doable, I know that in the long run, I likely would find it difficult to take part very often.
I did find a birder group in Longview and sent an email but haven't heard back from them. They have open meetings so I will try to get there and attend one. Longview is about 25 minutes away and that is not an issue.
So I am going to continue my search. Surely there is a group around, even if it is an informal one not necessarily a part of another organization.
I want to find a a way to add a social aspect to all this where I can learn more and share with others as well.
The search continues.
Michael is a former biologist and Texas Master Naturalist. Originally from Newsome, Texas (Between Pittsburg and Winnsboro), educated in Dallas & Garland schools, then off to the University of Texas system where he received a degree in biology and worked as a biologist with the University of Texas system. After many years away from nature and biology, he relocated to the banks of Lake O' the Pines where he has been rediscovering the joys of nature. He is somewhat surprised that he has become a birder. Most of his interest in nature was centered around reptiles. Perhaps just like birds evolved from reptiles starting in the late Jurassic, he has begun his own evolution. During his formal education, his interests in biology/nature grew to include community ecology and population studies, all with a binding of evolutionary processes. He liked birds, but they were secondary at best. All at once he finds them fascinating.
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