One afternoon this week we enjoyed a pleasant stroll along a greenway near our home. Part of this trail goes through land upon which a railroad right-of-way once ran, including an old railroad bridge. Here are a few shots of the rural scenery that were taken along the way.
“Somewhere between the start of the trail and the end is the mystery why we choose to walk.” ~Unknown
“Colors are the smiles of nature.” ~Leigh Hunt
Welcome back Ruby-throated hummingbirds. We have been waiting for you!
“Beauty is everywhere a welcome guest.” ~Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
This Great Egret, wading around in the shallow water, had just caught a frog as I happened upon the scene. Not bothered by my presence, he continued to enjoy his tasty treat.
“If you have to swallow a frog, don’t stare at it too long.” ~Mark Twain
I’m an odd combination of “Really Sweet” and “Don’t Mess With Me.” ~Unknown
Probably due to poor eyesight, this armadillo seemed oblivious to our presence as we sat and watched him forage along the ground for food. He used his sharp sense of smell to sniff out prey and his strong claws, pointy snout and long tongue to dig and pull them up. On this particular day, juicy worms seemed to be the preferred choice of grub.
“Patience, persistence and perspiration make an unbeatable combination for success.” ~Napoleon Hill
We spotted this Great Blue Heron along the Reelfoot Lake spillway. Its mind was singly focused on one thing — catching lunch — which it promptly did, and swallowed whole.
“Stay focused, go after your dreams and keep moving toward your goals.” ~LL Cool J
“Happiness flutters in the air whilst we rest among the breaths of nature.” ~Kelly Scheaffer
We finally had a couple of days of sunshine before Easter and were able to get out on some of the back roads to view nature. The theme of our drive seemed to be “animals hightailing it out of sight”, as many of the animals were skittish and in a hurry to make a quick retreat.
“Timing has a clear and loud voice. At the right time, step out and the sound will be heard by all.” ~Daniel Evans
walking on a country road 