It started on Palomar Mountain in the 1970’s. Two newly-weds were camping there, hiking, admiring the views, and gawking at the dome of the 200-inch telescope. Oak trees everywhere lined the trails, and the surrounding rocks showed a multitude of shallow, bowl-like impressions where prior cultures had ground acorns into meal to be prepared and eaten later.
As we walked through the forest, suddenly a loud, hollow thump was heard followed by a loud “ouch!” and other related utterances. Dearly beloved looked in amazement, then doubled over in laughter as she realized that the strange sound had come from a large acorn descending at great speed onto the center of the top of my head and bouncing merrily on its way.
It was the first time I had had such an experience, but not the last, and I can certainly confrim with some regret that the acorn does not fall far from the tree. What’s worse, here in Florida we are surrounded by oak trees and it is now acorn season. I’m just glad that I was somewhere else when the acorns pictured came down. Perhaps I should start wearing a helmet.
#acorn #oaktree
Eskildoodle Photos and Feelings 