It has been a whirlwind summer. I got a full-time job that I LOVE working for the forest service. I got a full-time job for next year teaching in Kentucky. I have tried, but generally failed to get some research done while working full time this summer. The problem here is that my job if physically taxing and time-consuming. On my three days off per week, I generally have to rest one, get things done around the house on the other, and have but a single day to devote to research. Take on top of that an illness that I was able to work through, but demanded nearly constant rest on my off hours, and I my research has suffered.
But, if there is a silver lining in this summer, it is this. My job has taken me to the natural areas that I have failed to see in nearly eight years of living in southern IL. And that is something I will never regret. This job is just what I needed this summer.
Lusk Creek Canyon
The lazy Lusk Creek.
I spent an hour online trying to determine the name of the creek that provides the water for Jackson Falls. It I failed. It might be Upper Bay Creek or Hayes Creek or something entirely different. So, here is the unknown creek just above the falls at Jackson Falls.
I actually do work. That's me eradicating garlic mustard.
Sitting atop Stoneface.
All in all, it's been a fun summer. Too bad about the research.
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