Earlier today, a flock of American robins mixed with cedar waxwings descended upon the holly trees in our front yard. They systematically harvested the berries and then quickly moved on to their next destination. What a treat to watch these beautiful birds in action!
“What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness.” ~John Steinbeck
The cardinals keep my backyard interesting with their beautiful colors and energetic activity. Their constant sense of alertness can make for some rather expressive photos.
“Of all the things you wear, your expression is most noticeable.” ~Unknown
Altocumulus Undulatus
“We can speak without voice to the trees and the clouds and the waves of the sea. Without words they respond through the rustling of leaves and the moving of clouds and the murmuring of the sea. ~Paul Tillich
“Eagles come in all shapes and sizes but you will recognize them chiefly by their attitudes.” ~E. F. Schumacher
My husband and I have a favorite spot where we enjoy standing and watching the barges glide slowly and silently along the Mississippi. There’s something mesmerizing about watching the powerful engines of the tows as they seem to effortlessly push their large loads up and down the river.
Sometimes, I can’t help but be taken back in my mind’s eye to far away childhood memories of standing spellbound along the Illinois Central Railroad and feeling the rumble of the large, powerful engines of the freight trains as they glided smoothly along the tracks through our small West Tennessee town. The thrill of waving to the conductor and receiving a wave or hearing a short, loud blast of the engine’s horn.
Yes, there’s something magical about watching the barges go up and down the Mississippi and the memories that they bring to mind. And sometimes, you can’t help but smile and wave and wish them safe travels on their journey.
February full moon and the planet Jupiter in the western sky just prior to the sun coming up
“A dreamer is one who can only find his way by moonlight, and his punishment is that he sees the dawn before the rest of the world.” ~Oscar Wilde
Go out, go out I beg of you and taste the beauty of the wild. Behold the miracle of the earth with all the wonder of a child.” ~Edna Jaques
walking on a country road 