Sometimes when we drive along Mississippi River farmland we see very little. On our last drive, however, we hit the jackpot. A field dotted with beautiful Great Egrets and a single string of White Pelicans fishing in standing water graced the landscape.
“A philosophy of life: I’m an adventurer, looking for treasure.” ~Paulo Coelho
It is common to see the great egret feeding along the edge of Reelfoot Lake, or in nearby seasonally flooded land, between March and October. Their beauty and stately manner continue to fascinate me. These photos were taken at various times over the past year.
“If you are always racing to the next moment, what happens to the one you’re in? ~Zig Ziglar
We enjoyed seeing several great egrets out hunting on flooded land that lies near the Mississippi levee. Their snowy white feathers really stood out against the bright yellow butterweed growing in the fields.
“It is not how much we have, but how much we enjoy, that makes happiness.” ~Charles H. Spurgeon
A leisurely drive along the Mississippi levee at this time of the year never disappoints. One of my favorite sightings this month was several Ruby-throated hummingbirds darting in and out among the red clover. We sat and watched their playful activity for some time. No photos, but clear, beautiful images in my mind.
“Memory … is the diary that we all carry around with us.” ~Oscar Wilde
This colony of Great Egrets was hunting for food in a flooded field close to the Mississippi River. Watching as they waded around among the Butterweed was a stunning sight.
“To walk in nature is to witness a thousand miracles.” ~Mary Davis
Due to heavy rains, the Mississippi River recently overflowed its banks and went beyond the tree line. These photos were taken on the levee near Tiptonville, TN.
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Rain water also encroached on the land surrounding Reelfoot Lake. This brought some animals in closer than they might usually come.
“Many waters cannot quench love, Nor will rivers overflow it …” ~Song of Solomon 8:7
A few shots from a recent trip to Reelfoot Lake State Park.
“Five frogs are sitting on a log. Four decide to jump off. How many are left? Five, because deciding is different than doing.” ~Unknown
“Calmness is the graceful form of confidence.” ~Marie Von Ebner-Eschenbach
A Great Egret standing lookout at Black Bayou Refuge, Lake County, Tennessee
“Always be on the lookout for the presence of wonder.” ~E. B. White
“None of us will ever accomplish anything excellent or commanding except when he listens to this whisper which is heard by him alone.” ~Ralph Waldo Emerson
walking on a country road 