My soul craves being in Nature. That is when I feel most alive. I look at the above wildflower picture and memories rise to my mind’s eye. It brings back a beautiful day hiking in the Cascades one spring. There is such a profusion of colorful diverse flowers. They’re arranged haphazardly yet fit so well together. If our Creator revels in diversity, why doesn’t our world welcome the diverse members of the human family?
I love to experience nature in misty atmospheric conditions. There is such a sense of mystery. It heightens my imagination. What will I see when I hike around the next bend? The element of surprise quickens my pace. Many times that mist will burn off and it becomes a sunshiny day.
When I hiked on slick rock trails in Sedona, Arizona, I was in the midst of Nature’s artwork. Red rock hoodoos shaped by wind, temperature, and rain resembled Disney characters. No manmade creations could rival the majestic formations towering all around me.
America is blessed with contrasting geographic regions. I’ve visited most desert National Parks in California and Arizona. The dry arid territory displays a variety of cactus vegetation. These saguaros provide a habitat for many birds. Their thorns protect them from predators. They reduce water loss due to evaporation by breaking airflow around the main plant.
I didn’t find one person who did not stand in awe at the majesty of the Grand Canyon. My husky and I had to walk the Rim trail since dogs aren’t allowed off asphalt paths. Everyone I talked to felt privileged to see the grandeur displayed before them. Many believed it was the signature of God’s Almighty hand. The terrain appeared to constantly change in color and configuration around every bend. I couldn’t take enough pictures.
This picture recalls many fond memories of hiking trails in Washington and Oregon. I can smell the dry pine needled fragrance under my feet. Towering trees provided a welcome relief from soaring temperatures. My eyes scanned the forest for elusive birds. Tree squirrels scolded me from leafy branches. I welcomed the fresh air far from the smog of cities. I always returned home refreshed in spirit, ready to tackle what lay ahead that week.
I like variety in my life. That’s why I look forward to the different seasons. Spring welcomes me with the renewal of life. Flowering bulbs burst forth with vibrant colors. Blossoming trees brighten my days. Songbirds flock to my feeders again. Summer brings warmer weather with fun on the water and tasty fresh vegetables. Fall heralds another season of brilliant leaves and delicious fruits. Winter storms decorate bare limbed trees and entice me with the thrill of snow sports.
Who is not mesmerized by the sight of a cascading waterfall. The sound alone draws me like a magnet. My steps pick up their pace. I’m impatient to go around the bend of the trail until it’s revealed in all its glory. The air feels refreshing as frothy cascades release invigorating mist. My worries dissolve and my energy is renewed. It reminds me of the importance of water nourishing all living entities on earth.
I feel blessed when I come upon a herd of mammals resting contentedly in a meadow. This country supports a wide variety of wildlife, especially in the West. Our National Parks attract foreigners to the wonders of nature and abundant wildlife. We have buffalo roaming freely in Yellowstone and Custer State Park. I have witnessed big horn sheep butting heads during the rutting season. It was a moment imprinted on my mind forever. I hope all Americans appreciate this land full of so many wild animals, even in our backyards.
I love to canoe on wilderness lakes. I soak up the serenity as I leave the frenzied pace of life behind. Fortunately there are pristine areas where humans are few. One such place is the Boundary Waters Canoe Area of Minnesota. Camping on an isolated island is precious. Loons and other water fowl swim past on the water. There is abundant fish to support their livelihood and provide a meal for myself. Beavers entertain me harvesting aspen trees for their home of interconnecting branches. If I’m lucky a bull moose with huge antlers will appear for a drink. A barred owl may hoot above my tent at night. Amazing that a simple photo will spark a memory like this.
This sunset photo reminds me of a day well spent in the mountains. Glorious sunsets quicken my heart. I appreciate every one I’m privileged to see. They let me know that God and my angels watch over me. They seem to proclaim that all is well in our world. No matter what troubles exist in my life, an awe inspiring sunset gives me peace and comfort.
Sincere thanks to Sahil Patel for encouraging me to peruse my albums. I appreciate the copious photos I’ve taken that transport me back to happy times.
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