I began this research into tactile perception with Machado in the Guadarrama Mountains.  I visited several trails before finding the Valsain one from the Segovia side of the mountains.  This part was quieter than the Madrid side access.  I could take my time and admire the Silvestre Valsain pine tree that is special to this place.  This forest is a jewel in the Guadarrama Mountain range due its stunning copper colour trunks.  The walk was slow along the river and I ventured into the higher forest, attracted to a spot that I will never forget.  It was a decomposing Valsain pine.  The fallen tree invited me to touch its inner heart that inspired two unique poems.  The river was cold as ice in the thawing north side of the mountains, still covered by snow.  Everything was inviting me to touch it!  I even found river stones that asked for my tongue to savour.  It was an astounding walk with a slowness at the pace of a lizard gazing from all directions.  An unfortunate chain saw noise interrupted a lovely afternoon and the stumps of freshly cut trunks ripped through my heartbeat, startling me.  Even so, the walk became imbedded in my finger pads.