Field Notes: Fall 2025

Witch-hazel 

Crinkled petals glow gold on leafless branches

In the soft October light, I greet American Witch-hazel

Also known as 
       Snapping Hazel
       Winterbloom
       Hamamelis virginiana

Names that smile 
       seeds explode from their capsules
that settle peacefully 
       flowers open late in the year
that furrow brows
       fruits (Greek melon) ripen 
       at the same time (Greek hama) 
       that flowers bloom

Other names 
forgotten, silenced
       their stories and wisdom lost

Romcom in the woods 

Red Maple and Wind
have dotted the trail 
with scarlet leaves.

“I love you too,” I say
as Wind carries my kisses
back to Red Maple.

Postcard to the Woods #5

Dear Woods,

The clean scent of cut pine greeted Asha and me as we walked up a trail we hadn’t been on in a while. Then I saw a large scarred space instead of your beautiful trees.

My heart ached as I carefully stepped over, around and on the many scattered branches, twigs and roots left by loggers. My head spun as I searched for the trail, disoriented by the wide roads created for heavy equipment.

Woods, I know you’ve been through this before, and each time you’ve responded with new growth.

Please teach me to meet change with an open and resilient heart.

In heartship,
Marilyn