Graduation, walks in the woods, being a tourist.....

A beautiful evening for Newtown Connecticut  High School Class of 2023 graduation.   And, the last of the grandchildren to transition to an exciting future.    Mason will become an Aviation major at the University of North Dakota.   His father graduated from there (same degree)   and his grandmother spent her freshman year there way back in 1961. !!     UND is considered one of the best school for aviation.      And for those of you who keep track, yes, that is my official graduation attire....however, humidity is lethal to my thick hair.  

And then we went for a walk in the woods..... this is my favorite place.    So green, so mossy and with interesting mushrooms and lichens along the way.   The state flower, mountain laurel, was in full bloom.  

Lake Zoar appears at the end of one trail along with the waterfall....water was fairly low but the lovely brooks were bubbling along and deep enough for Murphy to splash around in.   

The frog was small but struck a good pose.

Murphy always looks his best.

And then we came home and were greeted my first perfect cherry tomato..... life is good.   

We did go into NYC to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.    Mary Beth's brother and Susan came to celebrate Mason so we explored these landmarks.     Lots of walking and ferry rides and stunning views.... At the Statue, they allow access to the pedestal, up to her feet.   It's 195 steps.   I decided to walk up and about halfway came to a family of teen girls and parents...... the girls were complaining mightily about the climb.   I finally said, " If I can make it, you can make it..... I am 80".     They all turned to look at me  and were generous in their comments.    and we continued upward , quietly.....    

I'm reading "H Is For Hawk"..... actually bought it in book form as I think it would be a good reread someday.   So far I'm learning a bit about training goshawks and her meditations on nature.   Also, listening to "Lady Tan's Circle of Women" by Lisa See.   It's OK and an easy listen on my walks and on airplanes.     The narrators voice is a bit irritating and hoping the story line improves.     I plan to reread "Covenant of Water" when P is finished.   There are so  many books on my TBR list.....