Out and About in Delaware's State Parks

There is nothing I enjoy more than to "hit the trails" by foot or by bike in autumn. I find the cooler temperatures especially invigorating as I wander through the brilliant spectacle of nature’s artwork. Every year I discover new sights and sounds to excite and satisfy the senses. In the past several weeks, I managed to get out and enjoy the trails on a number of our parks. Each pathway had its own special qualities that made the experience memorable. The Pondside Trail at Killens Pond was awash in autumn’s colors. As I wandered the gentle slopes around the pond, I saw numerous squirrels, a lone deer and all sorts of songbirds. I made frequent stops to enjoy the slowly meandering streams feeding into the pond. The solitude and beauty of the setting were a welcome escape from the hectic demands of the average workday. I must admit it was very hard to break away and return to my normal responsibilities! The following week, I found myself on the Gordons Pond Trail at Cape Henlopen. Once again, I was met with an awe inspiring display put on by Mother Nature. Pine trees were nestled in a backdrop of deciduous trees awash in hues of rust brown, yellow and red. In the distance I could hear a loud hum coming from the pond. As I rounded a corner I was met with a view of thousands of snowgeese dotting the water. It was literally a "sea of white." A number of other hikers joined me in watching as more geese descended on the pond from every direction. It was an amazing spectacle for all of us to observe. Unexpectedly, something startled the huge flock. Within seconds we found ourselves surrounded by thousands of fleeing geese. The noise as they took off was deafening. The sight of thousands of geese taking off as one was incredible to behold. I found myself exhilarated by the experience. It was just another reminder of the wonderful things nature has to reveal if we only take the time to get out and explore. I encourage everyone to take a little time to get out and discover the natural treasures in our parks. You’ll be glad you did!

Gordons Pond…Pavilion Update
As I have mentioned previously in this column, the Division is moving ahead with plans to construct a picnic pavilion off the north end of the Gordons Pond parking lot. The structure was originally scheduled for completion in spring 2004. Unfortunately, delays with the design held up progress on the project. I am happy to report, the approximately $100,000 project is now underway. The Shoal Construction Company has been awarded the contract to erect the 20’x40’ pavilion. The laminated arch structure will be a duplicate of the pavilion located near the fishing pier at Cape Henlopen. It will be on a concrete pad and features water and electric service, as well as an oversized grill and firering. The pavilion is expected to be completed by late spring 2005 and will be available for rent to accommodate large group functions and special events.

Looking Back and to the Future
It’s hard to believe the year is coming to a close! As I get older, the time just seems to race by faster and faster. This time of year always puts me in an introspective mood. I think back on the events of the past year and reminisce about the special times spent with family and friends. This past year was especially significant for my partner, Bob, and I. We celebrated our 5th anniversary by exchanging rings… something that was very meaningful for me. In late summer, the stars seemed to align in a sequence of unexpected events that will undoubtedly have a great influence on our future. First I discovered I could retire next year…five years earlier than expected. That got us thinking about our plans to retire in Florida. Next we got an unexpected windfall right at the time we were scheduled to take our annual trip to Fort Lauderdale. Before we knew it, we were house hunting. After an exhausting and fruitless process spearheaded by Bob, we were about ready to give up. Wouldn’t you know the last home on our list turned out to be the perfect place! We made a low offer expecting to negotiate a price over several days. To our complete surprise, the owners accepted our initial offer! In no time at all, we found ourselves the owners of a wonderful Mediterranean style house. A number of other "events" have continued to go our way including the house surviving two nearby hurricanes with no problems. Everything seems to be pointing to the decision that early retirement is the way to go. For now, we are focusing our attention on making this new residence into the "home" of our dreams. Bob, who loves to decorate, is enjoying every minute of the challenge. Unfortunately, he gets a lot of big ideas that mean a lot of extra work for me! I’m taking it all in stride and looking eagerly towards the future.

With the close of the year, I want to wish you all a happy and healthy holiday season. We all have much to be thankful for in our lives…most especially for the special people who make each day worthwhile. Best wishes!

Nature’s Best Bets

If you are looking for fun ways to spend your spare time, check out the Seaside Nature Center at Cape Henlopen State Park? The Center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. throughout the year. Please note the facility will be closed November 25 and 26, December 25 and 26, and January 1, 2005. Staff provides programs designed for individuals and families. A highlight of any visit is viewing the five 1000-gallon aquariums that feature different aquatic habitats. You’ll be glad you took the time to explore this exciting facility.

Full Moon Hikes • Friday, November 26, 7 p.m.; Sunday, December 26, 7 p.m.; Tuesday, January 25, 7 p.m.; Wednesday, February 23, 7 p.m.
Take a guided walk through the moonlit landscape of Cape Henlopen State Park. Learn folklore and facts about Earth’s closest neighbor. Pre-registration is required. Limited to 25 participants. $2 per person.

Owl Prowl • Saturday, November 13 & Sunday, December 12, 7 p.m.
Owls are superbly adapted for hunting after the sun goes down. Join us as we learn about the adaptations of these incredible nocturnal predators and then we’ll head out to prowl the forests of Cape Henlopen in search of resident great horned and eastern screech owls.

Docile Deer • Sunday, November 28, 1 p.m.
The graceful white-tailed deer inhabits much of the area surrounding Cape Hen-lopen. Discover their world and what makes them frolic so playfully within the park.

Park Full of Pines • Saturday, December 11, 1 p.m.
Four species of pine inhabit Cape Henlopen. Head out into the park with a naturalist to learn how to identify the species, and upon returning to the nature center, create a festive wreath to adorn your home during the winter months. Pre-registration is required. $5 per person. Limited to 15 participants.

Holiday Sing-Along • Saturday, December 18, 2 p.m.
Bring the entire family to take part in this festive program with singer/storyteller, Jackie McCabe. She’ll sing winter songs based on favorite storybook classics and nature-related tunes. Sip on some hot chocolate to whet your vocal chords!

Freezing Frenzy • Saturday, January 22, 11 a.m.
The cold winter months are often harsh for many of the animals attempting to cope with cold. Learn about the survival tactics that many species use in order to survive. Learn about the efforts humans can take to provide additional food sources for wildlife in backyards.

For information on these and other park programs, contact the Seaside Nature Center at 302-645-6852 or check out our website at www.destateparks.com