Off-topic

I'm pretty sure that smooth barked tree is Ironwood, aka American Hornbeam. Is it true that Ironwood is the only wood that doesn't float? I wanted to share a quote from Ecology today concerning populations of the living and dispersal of individuals; for the humor of all.

"The juvenile sea squirt wanders through the sea searching for a suitable rock or hunk of coral to cling to and make its home for life. For this task it has a rudimentary nervous system. When it finds its spot and takes root it doesn't need its brain any more so it eats it. It's rather like getting tenure."
Rodolfo Llinas, B. 1934. Bogata, Columbia

Nov. 25, 2007 Hike through Morgan Monroe State Park

Nothing to do with the green cemetery idea, but here are some shots from today.
Ancient oak next to the road


Is this Ironwood? It's next to a stream.










I don't know what these berries were.

Fungi all over.




Moss.

Our hike

fungi spotted near the put in













Judy, Roger, John, Andrea...the clearing...A walnut tree has been discovered...there is much rejoicing.














John explains something puportedly interesting...Chris listens, but for the most part he's ignored...later John wanders off and we have to go find him.













What kind of tree is this?







puffballs ... or earthballs...edible?...poison?...please cast your votes in "comments"