As Baloo and I walk along the various trails we frequent, we like to watch how the changing seasons affect the world around us. Baloo takes particular note of things he might be able to eat. One of our regularly traveled paths leads us along an area that used to be cultivated as orchard land. There are cherry trees, peach trees, apple trees and plum trees that have all gone wild over the years.
On one trail, there is a big tangle of plum trees that has become so overgrown and dense that deer and other critters hide in it (Baloo always stops to see who has been there). In the spring, the whole thicket is covered with beautiful, white blossoms - the deer have a very special bower to sleep under.
As the season progresses, the plums begin to mature as they turn from green to peachy yellow and, finally, to - well - plum.
I have to keep a close eye on Baloo, since he loves to eat any fruit that falls into his path. This wouldn't be a problem, except the pits can cause obstructions in puppy intestines. So, he doesn't get to eat them, no matter how good they smell.
I do, however stop at one of the crab apple trees and let him crunch a couple apples. These not only have a beautiful red skin, but the flesh is rich red on the inside as well. They are tart, but tasty!
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