Knowing

As I watched this female red-winged blackbird rest, I wondered...does she know her life is about to change? That she will lay eggs, and care for her babies, teach them, and send them off to their future? Does she know?

Or does she simply listen in each moment, follow Earth guidance, and experience her life one instant at a time?

As I’ve wandered and wondered over these past few years, I’ve developed a deep love and affinity for animals. I’ve learned so much from them, and I recognize the pure love that they are.

The natural world is such a special place...

(New photos on website Gallery:  wandernature.com/new-photos)

Simplify

A few days ago, I watched this robin gather materials for her nest. She carried twigs, grasses, and moss to a high branch. As I watched her build her cozy home to prepare to lay her eggs, I envied the simplicity of it all.

No trips to the home improvement store, or the hardware store, or the furniture store. No need to hang pictures, lay flooring, or install appliances.

I recognize that living in a bird nest isn’t very practical for me. But perhaps I could let go of some of the unnecessary things cluttering my nest. Over the years, I have parted with many things, but I still have much more than I need. Why do I hold on to so many things?

Time for some spring cleaning…

(New photos on website Gallery:  wandernature.com/new-photos)

Dreaming the Future

I love all four seasons, but winter is my favorite. Cozy fires, curling up with a good book and a cup of tea. So peaceful.

Wandering in the winter is very special as well. There is a hushed quality to the Earth as the flora and fauna rest. Winter is a time to go within and dream the future…dream what may birth in the spring.

Yesterday I watched this otter resting on the bank of a stream. A wonderful reminder to turn inward and listen to the Earth’s whispers about what is to come.

So much promise…

(New photos on website Gallery: wandernature.com/new-photos)