After looking out the door at the same maple tree for many years, I have come to appreciate the various seasonal changes, lighting, and moods associated with the scene.

I enjoy watching the squirrels as they chase each other among the branches and the birds as they flit about. I’ve grown to appreciate the way, especially in autumn, that the afternoon sun lights up the leaves from different angles as it slowly sinks in the western sky.

What a joy to watch a swarm of midges gather in a sunny spot under the branches.  Looking like little fairies, with their dainty wings and little legs, they seem to dance magically in the afternoon sunlight.

We can receive joy from taking note of and appreciating simple, familiar things that are a part of our daily lives.

“Joy comes to us in ordinary moments. We risk missing out when we get too busy chasing down the extraordinary.” ~Brene Brown