True gifts are those that touch our hearts and warm our souls. They are not presents which we buy with dollars but rather something that can’t be purchased no matter how much money you are willing to spend. I have always found my true gifts in Nature. And always, when I am not looking. These gifts just seem to magically appear when I need them the most, but I’m totally unaware that I DO need them. Some of Natures gifts make me smile. Some make me stare in amazement. Some make me laugh out loud. All are appreciated and all are thanked for appearing when I need them the most.
This past week I have been out with both camera, telephoto lens and tripod. Not looking or expecting anything, just trying to look like I know what I am doing. I don’t. I probably never will. I don’t really care.
But this is what happened…………………………………………………
On the shores of Curlew Lake, this Yellow Swallowtail landed almost at my feet.
He invited his friends to join him.
The Barn Swallows at our home are busy all the day long catching bugs out of the air and feeding their growing family.
The sun rising over the Kettle Crest takes my breath away. Combined with this stunning White Lilac I know this is paradise. I am grateful.
I often stop to visit the Osprey and their nests. On this day, this gorgeous male posed for me. In reality, he was sounding his cry to warn me away from his chicks.
Yes, that tiny white head is an Osprey Chick! Their little voices are so amazing! I’m not an expert but I believe that is Momma on the right.
Out in the boat on Curlew Lake, these Common Loons floated in front of us for many minutes. So unusual for this shy elusive gorgeous bird.
We are blessed with 2 nesting Bluebird families. They are what greets me every single morning even before coffee.
And then……..THE bird. The iconic symbol. Our national pride. Resting in a massive Ponderosa Pine down on Curlew Lake,
And again……………………………………
The American Bald Eagle. I see them several days a week and the still make stop and wonder.
You all know I love Mt Elizabeth right? Massive. Rock steady. Stunning. And my view every day from my kitchen window.
So yes, these are my gifts. More valuable than gold. And I am grateful.
Journey on!
Hugs and much love from me.
Karen, TJG
Karen,
Beautiful photographs of God’s creatures. You are blessed to have that beauty surrounding you every day. You know me and my love of nature so I really enjoyed this posting. Did you ever think of entering your photos in Bird Life Magazine? I bet they would put them in.
Hugs
Shar