While Gary and Kathy Haney and John and Donna Phillips were guests at our place for three days before flying to Thailand as tourists, Nancy took a personal day off so that we could drive less than an hour out to FRIM -- the Forest Research Institute of Malaysia. (The institute has a long history, going way back to colonial days and is a tribute to Malaysia's continuing commitment to forest preservation and research.)Once we arrived in the morning and paid our admission fees we hired a guide who took us on a 2 1/2 hour hike through the forest where he pointed upwards to a fascinating phenomenon called "canopy shyness" in a group of camphor trees.
(Notice how the uppermost canopy doesn't come quite together but leaves intricate paths of light!)
The 2 1/2 hour hike included a canopy walk that was enjoyed by all but Nancy who opted out of the stiff climb up a rugged slope as well as the feeling of being suspended on a swaying walkway high above the ground! (John Phillips, walking behind me, is pictured.)The weather was hot and humid -- as one expects in the rain forests of Malaysia -- but our guests thoroughly enjoyed the day. Also pictured are some beautiful water lillies. - rw
