Cypripedium plants are protected but my neighbor grows them from seed and sells them. It takes years and years to grow them so there will never be a co-op and you see their prices. I once bought an Cyp. acaule but it didn't "take" here. They rarely can be transplanted because they have very specific culture needs. www.hillsidenursey.biz

This weekend we spent some time at our place in Pennsy. I was hoping for some nice Fall colors and yes, there is some.
However, so many trees have lost their leaves prematurely this year. The ground was littered for weeks already with leaves full of Black Spot and many trees were simply pretty much bare.


And a view from the neighbor's slope, we are to the right.

Looks beautiful, even if the leaves are falling prematurely. Some are doing that here but I'm still expecting mountains of color.

Kathy, is fall later than normal this year?
I grew up in North Andover, and it seemed
like the peak was mid October.

It's mid to late October. It has started but more to come.

In the Poconos, peak is October 15. This is way early!

I took a walk along the Saddle River this afternoon and I was very happy to see the first Snowdrops of the season!
Glen Rock Duck pond:


and walking towards Ridgewood.


I was delighted to spot several really good size clumps of Snowdrops next to the bike path.

Yesterday's walk from Fair Lawn to Saddle Brook - still very wintery and barren, but the Crocus are coming up.

Really really Beautiful, Ursula!!!

Oh, those snowdrops and the stone Mill.....

Thanks Janice!
I am always happy that we have this beautiful bike path along the river connecting several local towns. Fun to walk and until only a couple of years ago, great for Roller blading. Lots of bikers too.

On Friday we took a ride out to our place in Pennsy. It was still very wintery and downright damp and chilly. I was hoping to have a bit of lunch outside, in a warm sweater of course, but the weather was not cooperating. Although there was still some ice on the pond, a few of the little "Sunnys" actually checked us out already. Brrrr, way too cold.
If you look at the 4. picture - one of the hunter-fellows was very enthusiastic and trimmed off all the lower branches on the tall, right pine tree. I didn't know if I should laugh or cry when I saw it. I suppose it is alright, at least the lawnmower fits now easily underneath! No harm done.

What a beautiful lake and scene, Ursula!

He either bumped his head on it , or maybe needed kindling?

I think he just liked to be helpful!

eddied to add - I just found out today, our Lawn service had asked to clear the branches to make the cutting easier, and as our friends did, they noticed white Fungus, so they cleaned it all up! Klaus was in on it. I have to thank them!!