“Stuff your eyes with wonder… See the world. It’s more fantastic than any dream made or paid for in factories.” – Ray Bradbury
Leaf, Twig or Branch
-
Leaf, Twig, or Branch? -
Just What I Needed
Sunset at Kingfisher Point – Nix Farmhouse in the Background Being on the restless side I headed east with no specific place to go or be. I ended up at the Environmental Learning Center and enjoyed a much-needed walk. Disappointed I did not see any deer but I did see the Great Horned Owl “whoooo” has been there all summer. Pretty much had the place to myself.
On my way home I could see a few clouds hanging over the mountains which offered hope for sunset colors. I pulled into the Kingfisher Point Natural Area parking lot. I have only been there one other time. It is primarily a fishing area with just under a miles worth of trails. No cars in the parking lot so I headed for the ponds.
The afternoon in the quiet of nature, the sunset, the persistent mosquitos and nats, the chilly fall air, all made me aware of how vital it is to be in nature for my health, both mentally and physically. It turned out to be just what the doctor ordered. The restless spirit has subsided and I slept like a baby.
-
Caught
Caught in the Grass I found this leaf caught in the tall grass along the Fisher Nature Area. It seemed to be suspended in the air so I took a shot. When we take the time to notice each leaf has a specific look. The shape, color, and size are all dependent on how much light, water, nutrients, insects and weather. I walked past this leaf a couple days after taking this image and it was gone. I assume blown away during one of the windy days or disturbed by someone passing by.
-
I Like What I See
Shadows in the Snow It’s nice to see the weather finally starting to warm up. But this is Colorado so we could have 6 inches of snow and be back in the teens in four weeks. This past weekend was nice for us out here in Colorado. I took a walk at the Environmental Learning Center on Saturday and the Arapahoe Bend Nature Area on Sunday. Both areas were pretty muddy and that means things will be greening up before we know it.
During my walk I realized how I have taken my vision for granted. By vision I’m referring to the ability to see. A blind person must see with other senses. I also see in color that others do not. The older I get the more aware I am of those things around me, being present to the moment. At this time in my life my mind is not tied up with family worries or a project schedules at work. So, there is gratitude in just seeing. And, I like what I see.
-
Blue Skies
Blue Skies It was 29 degrees yesterday at 11:00 when I took a walk at the Environmental Learning Center. Beautiful clear blue sky and lots of sunshine. The sunshine was making the trail muddy in places but I also found it quite icy in others. It was good for me physically to experience the cold and get in the exercise. But, more importantly it was good for the much needed reset for my head. I noticed a hawk perched on the top of a tree and waited until I was on his east side to get a photo. When I came to the clearing where I wanted to get a photo I also encountered two does at the base of the tree. They were probably bedded down there and I hated to be the one to disturb them. I grabbed a family photo and headed for the car. It was well worth the effort and time despite the sniffling nose and muddy shoes.
-
A Late Afternoon Walk
Environmental Learning Center -
A Cold Front …
Fall Starburst … is on it’s way. Temperature tonight is expected to be in the high 20’s then low 30’s on Tuesday night. But, this past week and the weekend have been gorgeous. Yesterday was 74. Yesterdays sunrise was gorgeous but I only saw it from my bedroom window. Just couldn’t get out the door. Kids on campus wearing, shorts, flip-flops and tank tops. People were biking and playing football at the city park. I took advantage of the weather and made a couple trips to the nature areas. I’m making chili soup today. Stay warm.
