In 2019, I spent many weekends exploring, observing and learning about a conservation effort in Illinois. Compared to past visits to national and state parks where it is a moment in time, a snapshot, this experience was vastly different. As the seasons changed, I saw the landscape quietly change- bringing new colors. I also became familiar with the landscape and plants, suddenly, I knew where to find the bloodroots and horsetails. And, at times, I was a silent spectator. Such as when the sandhill cranes appeared from nowhere to land in front of me. Their grace, sheer size, iconic red masks- to be in close proximity was magical.
