Mystical forestBlue Sky Ecological Reserve. Photo impressionism.

There is a fine effluence surrounding the wood, as if the sap had begun to stir and you could detect it a mile off. Such is the difference between an object seen through a warm, moist, and soft air and a cold, dry, hard one. Such is the genialness of nature that the trees Misty morningBlue Sky Ecological Reserve appear to have put out feelers by which our senses apprehend them more tenderly. I do not know that the woods are ever more beautiful, or affect me more. (Journal of Henry David Thoreau, March 10, 1859)

I visited Blue Sky Ecological Reserve the other day - something of an exercise in frustration, since most of the trails were closed.  But the oak grove was open, and it was a fine time to be there: early morning, with the fog just lifting.  It added a softness to the air, echoing Thoreau's words on this date.  The image above has a touch of photo impressionism, to enhance the mystery.