My online journal where I share my interests in photography, nature, journaling, fountain pens, bicycling, coffee life, spirituality and the mystery of it all.
“Weeds are flowers, too, once you get to know them.”
A.A. Milne
Field bindweed (Morning glory) is a twining weed which spreads by seed and by new plants arising from a perennial root system reaching ten feet or more in depth. The slender stems may reach six feet in length, running along the ground or climbing fences, crop plants, ornamentals, or other convenient supports. Years ago I needed to dig fence post holes and found roots 3 feet deep. Yet, I agree with Winnie-the-Pooh, they can be beautiful and photogenic.
… I needed to stop and get on one knee again to get a photo of these asters (blanket flowers) along Spring Creek Trail. I did not ride the past couple days because of the rain and drizzle, so I really enjoyed this morning’s ride. And, in case you’re curious, I was able to get back up without help and there were no popping sounds!!
I had this moment of “Wow” on my way home from the coffee shop this morning. There is a section along Spring Creek Trail where several of these blanket-flowers (asters) are gathered alongside the trail. I decided today was the day to stop. I knelt on one knee and worked on a composition I liked. It is moments like that I realize I am learning that I am a mystic when I am kneeling before a blanket-flower, or any creation of nature, with my camera in hand, checking my composition and histogram and then realize I am holding my breath. It’s at that point I pause, take a deep breath and say a simple prayer of “Wow.” Isn’t that what a mystics does?
Looking out my front doorLilacs baring a heavy loadDamaged tree at CSU OvalCSU Flower Trial GardensCSU Flower Trial Gardens
Here are a few scenes from the spring snow we are enjoying. I cleaned off 5 inches of snow from my car this morning. We need the moisture so I’m pleased with that. It is a heavy wet snow so it will keep the tree trimmers busy over the next couple of days. There are several tree branches down on along the campus on Shields and Laurel and they have the CSU Oval closed. The coffee shop was empty because CSU classes have been canceled. Meg, my barista, made me an Old town mocha and was playing oldies, so I tapped my foot and journaled. The snow is beginning to let up as the sun tries to break through the clouds and the temperature rises. I would suggest you not walk under any trees as you will most likely get snow dumped on you, very wet and cold snow. I am looking forward to meeting my youngest daughter and granddaughter for lunch today. Stay warm and dry and please treat everyone you meet today as a person!
“Evil begins when you begin to treat people as things.”
“Every form of insentient existence – plants, stones or utensils – has its individual feelings similar to those of men. When we observe calmly, we discover that all things have their fulfillment.”
Basho, The Essential Haiku by Robert Hass
We awoke to a dusting of snow. Since then it has switched between a constant drizzle and snow, sometimes rather large snowflakes. It is actually quite beautiful. It is moisture we desperately need, so bring it on. And, I want to believe every plant, including these leaves outside the coffee shop, is probably excitedly soaking it all up and singing its own silent song of happiness.
Knowledge was inherent in all things. The world was a library and its books Were the stones, leaves, grass, brooks… We learned to do what only the students of nature ever learn, that was to feel beauty.
The simple things are also the most extraordinary things, and only the wise can see them.
Paulo Coelho
It is a cool fall morning with a light mist descending on everything. Needless to say I did not ride my bicycle this morning. As I returned from the coffee shop I noticed the fallen leaves sparkling and shining up at me. So I took my camera for a walk, accepting the simple and extraordinary gifts of nature. These moments are important in my life because they help keep my feet firmly on the ground, even when it’s wet, and life simple. Today is also a great day to enjoy a crockpot of chili soup now simmering.
Changes are being made to this blog. First will be the look of this theme. Secondly, I am changing hosting services so there may be a period of silence from me. You even may see the Error 404 code. If I’m not back up and running in 5-7 days, send out a search party. I’ll probably be drifting somewhere in the World Wide Web.
Welp, when I started to leave the coffee shop this morning I experienced my first flat tire after just over 1800 miles of riding. I filled both tires early this morning before I left and hope I have not damaged anything. I was not able to find any nail, screw or thorn. Without panicking or throwing a hissy-fit I left the bike locked up and walked to the transit center and then took a bus to my condo. I drove my car back and brought the bike home. I did not want to walk the bicycle the 2 miles home. I will take it into the shop tomorrow and let them fix it. I do not want to mess with repairing the flat (front tire) because of the disc brakes. I will feel more comfortable with paying them to repair it. So, I got a good start to September.
These are Common Globe Amaranth planted in the median when you turn into the parking lot of the Lory Student Center at CSU. Every year this flower garden in the median catches my attention. And, each year they seem to plant something different. This is the first time I’ve seen these flowers here. I hope you enjoy your day!!
