“Without dark clouds in our lives, we would never know the joy of sunshine. We can become callous and unteachable if we do not learn from pain. ~Billy Graham
Common backyard birds
“The invariable mark of wisdom is to see the miraculous in the common.” ~Ralph Waldo Emerson
Been looking at the sky
“The air up there in the clouds is very pure and fine, bracing and delicious. And why shouldn’t it be?–it is the same the angels breathe.” ~Mark Twain
Red-tailed Hawk
A couple of Red-tailed Hawks — one sitting high atop a tree along a quiet country road, and the other soaring overhead in a secluded area near Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge.
“Each life needs its own quiet place.” ~Melody Beattle
Snowy day country road walk
“Abundance is not something we acquire. It is something we tune into.” ~Wayne Dyer
Tracks in the snow
It’s fun to spot animal tracks in the new fallen snow. Wildlife is all around us, but we don’t always get the chance to see it. Footprints in the snow share a story of their presence and activity.
“The future lies before you, like a field of fallen snow;
Be careful how you tread it, for every step will show.”
~Unknown
Surrounded by snow and ice
After a wintry cold spell, we once again visited Reelfoot Lake this past weekend and were amazed by the beautiful ice and snow formations surrounding the cypress trees.
“I wonder if the snow loves the trees and fields, that it kisses them so gently? And then it covers them up snug, you know, with a white quilt; and perhaps it says, ‘Go to sleep, darlings, till the summer comes again.'” ~Lewis Carroll (Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland)
A bright spot
This past week, West Tennessee has experienced sleet, snow and extremely cold temperatures, which have rendered many homebound. One of the things I have enjoyed during this time has been watching a flock of cardinals that have been visiting the feeders. Their activity and beauty have been a bright spot in some bitterly cold and icy days.
“Even dark days have a bright spot. Make it your goal to find it.” ~Lisa Petty
The Intrusion
Loud bird calls ring out
An intruding flash of blue
Small songbirds scatter.
“Thoughts intrude, like unwelcome guests at a party. Ignored and unfed, they depart.” ~Unknown
Brown Thrasher
I spotted this Brown Thrasher in my backyard early last summer. He picked up a few sunflower seeds under the feeder and then headed to the birdbath for a quick dip. The large yellow eyes and downcurved bill, which gave him a grumpy look before his bath, added a certain charm when he was wet.
“Create your own style. Let it be unique for yourself and identifiable for others.” ~Anna Wintour
walking on a country road 