Field Study #1

Sunday August 30, 2026

Where It all Begins:

Today marks the start of the race! Unfortunately, I didn't get a chance to film my video- because I was running a bit short on time, so I'll most likely just end up doing that next time I'm out here. On the other hand, I did get my overhead map/my initial pictures done- so at least thats a couple things I can mark off my to-do list!

To put it shortly, I'm truly super excited for this project since I have the opportunity to do it at the comfort of my own home! It's a little tricky to be able to coordinate this project though since I'm a busy person and have a packed schedule, but clearing parts of your weekends is the best way I've found so far. To be honest, it was difficult to pick where to do this project (even though I ended up picked somewhere so commonplace for me) since there truly are so many good options across Michigan.

(edit) P.S. this is a shorter entry with less photos, as I was short on time and trying to find my footing for this project ☺︎

Field Notes:

Date: 08 - 30 - 26

Time: 5:30p.m. - 5:50p.m.

Length of Day: 7:03a.m. - 8:18p.m. (13h, 15m)

Temperature: 75°F

Climate: Sunny with partial clouds, fairly windy

Observations: There was a lot going on, most notably, the bugs. For one, I get bit up so bad whenever I go outside- so I had expected for that to happen, and for two, I could hear the crickets and cicadas roaring and buzzing over everything; it's a nostalgic sound even though I hear it every year! They make up a big part of the sound of summer in my opinion. Since my location has a creek running through it, there was serene trickling of water the whole time. I heard the wind, since there was a notable amount today, rustling the tree branches and brush, as well as a squirrel skittering up the bark. I have a horrible sense of smell, a blessing and a curse, so I couldn't note anything much more than the natural scent of greenery. When I went down near the creek, I saw there were some kinds of plants flowering in a vibrant orange! They reminded me of a pitcher plant but tipped on its side, the way that they were like a cup. The other plant that stuck out at me was all around; it was spiky and rigid and it looked like it belonged in a desert. I saw many other plants besides those two types as well. I saw many different assortments of trees, but my favorite are the ironwoods. I think they are so interesting with their smooth bark; we used to use them as walking sticks all the time when I was growing up. I saw our stream which was shining from the sunlight filtering through the trees and onto everything. I also found some other critters like a cool fuzzy caterpillar and minnows. I didn't feel a whole lot, maybe joy because it was a pleasure to be outside in such a nice spot, but my more serious answer would be that I felt the sun on my skin, a real comforting warming feeling, and the wind to balance it all out. It was such an enjoyable evening out, and I can't wait to keep doing these!

Changes Since Last Visit: None. This is my first visit, but stay tuned for next time!