A calm and slightly overcast day make for some pretty reflections on the water.
“Only in still waters do things reflect undistorted.” – Anne Brown
Lake Reflections
turtle
Turtles of Reelfoot Lake
“Take a walk with a turtle. And behold the world in pause.” ~Bruce Feiler
Shades of Brown
Various shades of brown can be found in nature’s palette. These earthy hues provide a richness and warmth that can be soothing to the soul.
“Nature gives to every time and season unique beauty; from morning to night, as from the cradle to the grave, it’s just a succession of changes so soft and comfortable that we hardly notice the progress.” ~ Charles Dickens
Contented
There almost looks like a smile on this turtle’s face as he sits contently, basking in the sunshine at the base of a large cypress tree out in the lake.
“A smile is the light in the window of your face that tells people you’re at home.” ~Unknown
Summer Scenery
Hiking on the boardwalk around the edge of Reelfoot Lake is a good way to see native plant and animal life, with each season offering up its own variety of treasures.
“I felt my lungs inflate with the onrush of scenery … I thought ‘this is what it is to be happy.'” ~Sylvia Plath
Turtles
Turtles seem to be plentiful this year. Here are a few seen in May and June.
“Wisely, and slow. They stumble that run fast.” ~William Shakespeare
Peaceful Afternoon
Taking advantage of the cooler fall temperatures and the delightful sunshine, we spent a peaceful afternoon on the lake at Reelfoot Wildlife Refuge. It was fun to hear the sounds of the crows and herons arguing, the screech of the eagles soaring overhead and the gentle sound of the wind blowing across the water.
“Be mindful of the peace and quiet. It is only when you keep silent that you allow the sounds of the forest to enter.” ~Unknown
Turtle watching
As a small child, one of my favorite parts of going to Reelfoot Lake was seeing the turtles lined up on the logs along the roadside and out in the lake. Nothing has changed. This is still one of the highlights of my visits.
“There is absolutely no reason for being rushed along with the rush. Everybody should be free to go slow.” ~Robert Frost
Pelican and friends
This white pelican looked very comfortable sitting quietly with his two turtle friends on a log along the levee.
“The best kind of friend is the kind you sit with, never say a word and walk away feeling like it was the best conversation you ever had.” ~Steven Wright
Basking in the sun
Turtles soaking in the sun along the Mississippi River and Reelfoot Lake.
“Spring has never drummed up quite as effective a tranquilizing agent as a sunny spring day.” ~W. Earl Hall
walking on a country road 