I was out West when Covid-19 hit.
While driving home my housemate did admit,
Oh no, she was sick, and felt she had it.
So, I joined my dear friend to shelter-in.
In the Champlain River Valley, a win.
Along the foothills next to the high peaks
Rewalking the same routes for many weeks.
Exploring trails and roads out his back door.
Appreciating changes even more.
Becoming a devout phenologist.
Documenting signs I could not resist.
Of spring arriving in a progression
Of wildflowers in succession.
The value of repeating hikes, I learned
Rewards and new appreciations earned.
To be outside, no people, no worry.
Savor the freedom, no need to hurry.
I watched wood frog eggs in a vernal pool
An obligate species, it’s the rule.
Undervalued, we need observation
To protect these jewels, with conservation.
Making a connection to a new place
Marking passage of time in a new space,
This is how I survived the pandemic.
Moving my limbs, as an academic,
Away from the screen every afternoon,
Going outside with nature to commune.