Fall Color Check

“The real man smiles in trouble, gathers strength from distress, and grows brave by reflection”

-Thomas Paine

Innocence

“Being part of the natural world reminds me that innocence isn't ever lost completely; we just need to maintain our goodness to regain it.”

-Jewel

Wet Autumn Leaves

falling leaves
hide the path
so quietly

~John Bailey, "Autumn," a haiku year, 2001

Elk Viewing In Gaylord, MI

In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.

- John Muir

Autumn in Northern Michigan

Everyone must take time to sit and watch the leaves turn.

~Elizabeth Lawrence

My Loon

There are some things you learn best in calm, and some in storm.

~Willa Cather



Here is my Loon chick - all grown up and getting ready to migrate. The night he was born, there was a huge storm on the lake and his sibling didn't make it. The lake was full of predators such a Pike, Eagles and snapping turtles. But with his parents help, he was able to dodge danger . There were jet skiers and boats that sometimes came too close - but still he was able to avoid them and dive under the water just in time.

And now as I let out a sigh of relief, I realize that he made it! He will live and have a family of his own someday. Life is good.

Anticipation

Delicious autumn! My very soul is wedded to it, and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth seeking the successive autumns. ~George Eliot




I couldn't resist posting one of my Autumn photos from last year. This was taken in the early morning and I loved the contrast of the light fog against the brilliant colored trees. I am ready once again for Nature's best show of the year!