Grape curves, Assekonk

My cold is finally showing signs of abating, and it's a good thing, since, in a couple of days, I'm scheduled to spend the day outdoors teaching my favorite groups of sixth graders about the glories of the natural world—a natural world that, with any luck, will not include coughing fits. This afternoon, I forced myself to journey out to the trail I use around the edge of the Assekonk Swamp and prepare a discovery list. This will be our third trek over the same path, and we'll be following in the footsteps of Thoreau and every other naturalist, myself included, who dove deep into the same terrain. The last time we were in this very spot, there were bright leaves on the trees and I didn't realize just how thick and ancient this grape vine was. The curves almost make this vine look human: a seated nude. Of course, I can't offer that assessment to the students. I do want to be invited back.