“The sweetness of life lies in usefulness, like honey deep in the heart of a clover bloom.” ~Laura Ingalls Wilder
Bunny in a clover patch
country road
Passing through
Photos taken yesterday evening as a storm system passed through, bringing with it some imposing clouds. It was impossible not to pause a moment and be amazed.
“We’ve got one short, precious life here on earth. Let’s not spend it hurrying. ~Aliza Latta
A sea of yellow
Bright-yellow Bulbous Buttercups are in full bloom in the fields and along the roadsides of West Tennessee. These non-native plants are considered wildflowers by some — and invasive and noxious weeds by others. Although they add beauty to the landscape, they also compete with native plant species and are mildly toxic to livestock.
“I’ve learned … that two people can look at the exact same thing and see something totally different.” ~Unknown
Sandpipers
While driving along the Mississippi levee, in the distance I spotted a small flock of birds that were flying in a formation that looked like a light brown cloud. They were not ones that I normally see in the area, so I wondered what they were. Later, as we were driving along a road next to a flooded farm field, we spotted this little flock of birds, which explained what I had seen earlier. I believe these are Pectoral Sandpipers. They are common spring migrants in Tennessee from early March to mid-May.
“Live your life as an exclamation rather than an explanation.” ~Isaac Newton
The armadillo
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
Red Admiral
“Happiness flutters in the air whilst we rest among the breaths of nature.” ~Kelly Scheaffer
Clearing out
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
Backward glance
We stopped to let this Red-eared Slider cross the road along the Mississippi levee. When it was safely across, it stopped and gave us a backward glance as we passed by.
“There are those who pass like ships in the night, who meet for a moment, then sail out of sight with never a backward glance of regret; folks we know briefly then quickly forget. Then there are friends who sail together, through quiet waters and stormy weather, helping each other through joy and through strife. And they are the kind who give meaning to life.” ~Unknown
Dark skies
“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
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
walking on a country road 