The bulbous Spatterdock, Yellow Water Lily, Yellow Pond or Cow Lily is a native plant and was growing in several parts of the lake including areas next to the Fragrant Water Lily.

“Humans have put spatterdock to many uses. Historically many cultures ate the roots cooked fresh in stews or dried and ground into flour for baking. The seeds were gathered by Native Americans and either ground into flour or popped like popcorn. The leaves and roots also contain tannin which was put to use in dyeing and tanning. Medicinally, the leaves were used to stop bleeding, and roots were used in a poultice for cuts, swelling, and other ailments.”

Taking photographs is an opportunity to see and notice the world around me and to learn a bit about what she has to teach me. The beauty of the world gives without asking for anything in return. What is our responsibility for the gifts?