A trip to the lake just wouldn’t be the same without spotting these little guys enjoying their favorite sunning spots.
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Who says a turtle can’t climb a tree? This little fellow was determined, and up he went, climbing higher and higher. I imagine he was also seeking a sunny spot to relax.
“Never give up. Today is hard, tomorrow will be worse, but the day after tomorrow will be sunshine.” ~Jack Ma
A recent rainstorm at sunset, crowned with a dazzling rainbow.
With His Word He formed the mountains,
Made the skies and filled the sea.
Gave the land its wonderous beauty
Gave life’s breath to you and me.
He was there before the song was sung,
He still abides through its refrain,
And when the song gives way to silence
Still the Word of God remains.
~Lawrence Keith Holder
There’s something intriguing about silhouettes. Without using words, they tell a story, leaving the details to your imagination.
“The object of art is to give life shape.” ~Willliam Shakespeare
My nature walks this week yielded sightings of some of my favorite butterflies. It was hard not to be enchanted by their gracefulness and delicate beauty.
“Love is like a butterfly, a rare and gentle thing.” — Dolly Parton
Each year I look forward to the season of the stately and charming Queen Anne’s Lace. The delicate lace-like flowers, which grow wild along our country road, beautify the landscape, attract pollinators and provide habitat for a variety of insects. Ants, attracted by the flower’s nectar, are beneficial since they help protect them from aphids.
“Not a weed but a seed that has blossomed into a flower indeed.” ~Deborah Parise
During the spring breeding season, the molted feathers of the Great Egret are replaced with bright white plumage and long ornamental feathers which are vital for attracting mates. Daily preening is crucial for maintaining feather condition, as well as providing insulation and waterproofing.
“Good grooming is integral, and impeccable style is a must …” ~Daymond John
While driving the roads around the wildlife refuge, we are always on the lookout for woodland mammals which venture out into the open to forage and move about.
“It is remarkable how many creatures live wild and free though secret in the woods.” ~Henry David Thoreau
While driving down a familiar side street in our town, I noticed something out-of place, and looked again to see what it was. There, on a small branch on the ground, calmly sat an immature Barred Owl. What a nice, unexpected surprise.
“Nature is full for us of seeming inconsistencies and glad surprises.” ~Margaret Barber
The fields surrounding the levee were filled with chattering birds …
and adorned with vibrant spring wildflowers.
“Everything is blooming most recklessly; if it were voices instead of colors, there would be an unbelievable shrieking into the heart of the night.” ~Rainer Maria Rilke
It’s always interesting to see what birds we can spot as we drive around the lake and the Mississippi levee. Here are some of our most recent finds.
You’ll get mixed up,
of course, as you already know.
You’ll get mixed up with
many strange birds as you go.
So be sure when you step.
Step with care and great
tact and remember that
Life’s A Great Balancing Act.
~Dr. Seuss
walking on a country road 