Cortland—Apples of Maine

apples_cortlandNext to the McIntosh, this might one of the most common apples in America. Not surprisingly, the Cortland is a McIntosh cultivar. It was crossed with a Ben Davis at the New York State Agricultural Experimental Station in Geneva, New York in 1898. The name was taken from the nearby county of Cortland. The flesh is very white with a firm, crisp texture. The flavor is pleasantly tart, which makes it excellent for eating or cooking. Click on the image for a larger view.

Being, Becoming

white_mountains_rock_treeWhy life? Is this self-organizing matter a natural outcome of a universe? Is it the nature of a universe to desire consciousness? The Great Gulf Wilderness was carved out by ice in the last glacial period, leaving a world of rock. Yet, in spite of this harsh terrain, life thrived. Layers upon layers of organisms colonized and built this beautiful world. Unlike the eroded mountain it inhabits, it diversified into unimaginable complexity. Click on the image for a larger view.

Foliage Season

white_mountains_foliageFoliage season has come to New England. The season peaks in mid-October, but I have always enjoyed the period at the end of September, when the blaze of reds and oranges are contrasted with the lingering greens of summer. With the vivid blue skies of autumn, the season is a celebration of color. Click on the image for a larger view.