In 1802, Bull’s Run served as one of Middletown’s original boundaries. Named for the cattle-grazing land it meandered through more than 200 years ago, Bull’s Run now lends its name to an 11-acre nature sanctuary and arboretum just a few miles from 124 Kay.
Living on the banks of Bull’s Run has been a joy for us – and is probably what we will miss most of all when we move back to Chicago. The creek transforms the back yard into a combination nature lab and relaxing getaway.
In the spring, daffodils we planted across the creek are among the first blooms of the season. We also planted a half dozen red buds and two magnolias in the back yard. The magnolias have grown tall enough that you can see the blooms peaking over the deck from the master bedroom window. By early summer, when all the foliage across the creek has filled in, the deck is perfect for quiet, private relaxation. Fall brings a blaze of color and in winter, the trees covered in fresh snow and decorated with bright red cardinals are a picture just waiting for a camera.
Bull’s Run makes its babbling brook sounds almost all the time – even on warm winter days. Little waterfalls come and go depending on the configuration of rocks on the creek bed. We’ve even built a few ourselves just for fun. When it rains and the creek rises, the water moves amazingly fast. (Don’t worry, no floods! The bank on the opposite side is lower.) And when things are quiet again, there will be new little waterfalls, eddies and pools.
In the spring, you might see a pair of mallards leisurely floating down the creek. You’ll hear the frogs singing at night and even the call of an occasional screech owl. The feeders attract birds all year long, and in the summer, the creek is teaming with fish – from little minnows to schools of darters. (They like to eat leftover bread.)
Living on Bull’s Run has taught us so much about the natural world and the peaceful coexistence of flora and fauna. And then there’s us – and soon, perhaps, you – just two more beings living on Bull’s Run.
In 1802, Bull’s Run served as one of Middletown’s original boundaries. Named for the cattle-grazing land it meandered through more than 200 years ago, Bull’s Run now lends its name to an 11-acre nature sanctuary and arboretum just a few miles from 124 Kay.
