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.

Duchess of Oldenburg—Apples of Maine

apples_duchessDuchess of Oldenburg is an old variety originating in 18th-century Russia. It is one of the earliest apples of the season, bearing in mid-August. Most people prefer this as a cooking apple for pies or sauces as it is quite tart—it reminds me of a sour grape. Duchess does not store well. 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.

Ginger Gold—Apples of Maine

apples_ginger_goldGinger Gold is a modern variety grown commercially from the 1980s. Clyde Harvey discovered this apple in 1969 when his Virginian orchard was washed out by Hurricane Camille. It is believed to be a mix of Golden Delicious, Newtown Pipin, and an unknown variety. The apple is named after his wife.

Ginger Gold is an early apple that begins to bear in August. The pale green skin is smooth and waxy, and develops a slight red blush when it ripens.  The flesh is sweet and rich with a slight hint of lemon. Click on the image for a larger view.

St. Lawrence—Apples of Maine

apples_st_lawrence2The St. Lawrence is an old summer variety thought to have originated in northern New England or Canada. Its appearance is quite striking with dark-red stripes over light green. The white flesh is crisp and light. Very much like a Granny Smith, it is tart with a lemon undertone. The St. Lawrence is a great desert apple, but not a great cooking apple. Like many early apples, this fruit does not store well. Click on the image for a larger view.