Summertime Beauty

 

I think I like the summertime wildflowers best.  There is always something in bloom, somewhere, and usually several varieties at once that compliment each other with their colors.  Spring is definitely my favorite time of the year.  The wildflowers are beautiful and fairly predictable.  Summer tends to bring a little more unpredictability, to me.  Take this beauty for instance.  It is a Blackberry Lily.  I've never seen it before this season, even though there were dozens of them blooming in a place I frequent quite often.  I suppose it was meant to be on an evening like this one.  With Barred Owls calling from the tree line across the field, and deer jumping and blowing at almost every turn in the trail, how could I not expect to find something new and unusual to finish off this beautiful summer day.

Summer Sunset

 

I love the view from my backyard.  Especially on a cooler summer evening when Mother Nature brings all of her elements together.  The nice soft breeze from the north-west; slow moving, interesting clouds in the sky; the colors of the setting sun highlighting everything that it touches.  If it weren't for the sounds of cars and shopping carts at my friendly neighborhood Wally World, it might be perfect.  As the sunset gives way to the moon and stars and planets, and the noise gives way to the sounds of Katydids and Crickets singing through the night, I have to wonder, who else is enjoying Mother Nature's symphony tonight.

Early Summer

As true summer gains it's foothold on the area, walks in the woods and fens become more adventurous.  Not only can the heat and humidity zap your strength, but the mosquitoes and deer flies will zap your blood.  These nuisances are but slight obstacles to be overcome so that the peace, tranquility and coolness of the inner woods can be found.  Color is scarce except for the infinite shades of green.  But it is there if you look for it.  If you live in the moment, the moments that matter will find you.