December's Cold and Color

On this windy late afternoon, we met at the River to Ridge parking lot just outside of New Paltz. Bundled up, with traction on our feet, we set out toward the Shawangunk Ridge. No words, just movement, attentive to the sensations of this time and place, its weather and light. 

This Silent Walk was the first to take place in open farmland, away from wild woods. Our gaze naturally fell on the field's color and texture as we crunched our way through remnant snow, but who could resist the lifting appeal of such a dramatic sky? 

The following are reflections from participants of the walk. Sincere thanks to each of them for sharing this experience, braving the wind, and contributing a few words. The images and text suggest what it was like but nothing beats actually going on the walk! Join us next time.

"silence" is the sound of cramponed boots crunching through the snow and gravel

More than 256 colors, so many browns-some I can't name.

On paper, these colors are translucent. In the sky and on the ground they make sense...even if I don't know what they are called.

Maxfield Parrish orange sky,

Hundreds of pin oaks,

Hand drawn, animated clouds,

Deep scarlet brambles still holding fruit

I loved being part of the silent herd. What a break!

The snow revealed old labors.

Walking in winter at twilight is filled with extremes - extremely cold and windy, and extremely beautiful. The landscape was stark and magnificent as we walked into the setting sun.

 The colors were stunning, from watching the vibrant pink in the clouds change to deep purple, to the swaths of red and gold that were lit up by the setting sun. 

After spending the day playing video games of war, 

it's refreshing to walk silently and re-engage with my body.

The clouds stretched into vapor, no match for the wind.

L'art de vivre

cleansing

I loved the silhouette of the twin trees as we looked south and the dark line of woods at the end of our hike set against the hot pink sky, Jupiter high above.

"A beauty of meaning, movement and radiance"

Thanks to Unison Arts, especially Faheem Haider and Ally Bell, for their support of the Silent Walks.  Thanks also to the Open Space Institute for preserving and protecting open spaces such as the River to Ridge Trail. This is year end appeal time, so please consider supporting the good work these organizations do!

Lastly, I offer sincere gratitude to the Silent Walk's silent photographer, Thom Munterich. 

Thanks for this lovely documentation!