On a day when things weighed heavy on my heart and shoulders,
I knew just where to go to find peace . . .
the woods.
I can wander along and completely tune out life's cares by listening to my footsteps on soft pine needles, hearing the birds chirping, the wind whispering through the trees, and the squirrels scampering through the woods.
I was listening, but not really focusing on what was around me, when out of the corner of my eye I spotted an unusual tree. What caught my attention was the color of the inside wood that was revealed by peeling bark. It was a sycamore tree. My mom has three sycamore trees in her yard, but when the bark peals on those trees the inner woods is shades of white and ecru. This tree looked like it was wearing camouflage on the inside!
Off the trail I went to get a closer look. I walked around and around the tree, touching the rough bark, and taking a few pictures. That's when I spotted the heart. I am a firm believer that God brings pleasure to us through his creation. When I see hearts in nature I start to smile and my heart warms. I know it's a gift from God to me. Yes, to me! You see, no on else wanders in these woods but me.
For the rest of my walk I focused on bark; so many colors, so many patterns, so much texture.
It seemed that on this day I needed an extra dose of love. I found more that one heart in the woods. The second one was a small one hidden in the bumpy bark. Do you see it in the upper left third of the photo below?
It really doesn't take much to make me happy. A walk in the woods will do it every time. There I find peace, quiet, stillness, and sometimes I find a message from God; a little surprise that I stumble upon for my pleasure.
Such a lovely walk in the woods! The bark of the sycamore trees is so unusual, I've never seen anything like it. the textures and colours are beautiful when you show us the green heart shape. I did see the little heart in the bumpy bark too! I can understand how that made you feel very happy!
ReplyDeleteHappy Easter, Cathy!
You are an amazing woman dear Cathy.
ReplyDeleteNice to have a place that speaks to you and yes that is a true gift. Love the bark on the trees, really cool.
ReplyDeletesuch beautiful details in these up-close images!!! my mother has recently become blind and relies heavily on me for help and support. i too need to find comfort and peace in the little things that bring in joy. knitting is first, a walk in the woods, 2nd!! have a lovely weekend, i hope it's filled with love and joy!!!!
ReplyDeleteWhat a gift - to have a special place you can walk and be comforted and uplifted.
ReplyDeleteI love your walks in the woods. The bark shots are amazing!
ReplyDelete"God brings pleasure to us through his creation. When I see hearts in nature I start to smile and my heart warms. I know it's a gift from God to me." - I cannot agree with you more. I also run to the woods when I feel so drained and need to recharge. I photograph nature whenever I have time, it pleases & relaxes me.
ReplyDeleteThe camouflage bark looks perfect to me. All the other elements of nature you photographed are just as wonderful.
Walking in the woods is one of my favorite ways to chill out. Have a wonderful Easter!
ReplyDeleteYou're right. There's something about nature that somehow makes the burden light.
ReplyDeleteHappy Easter!
What great finds, Cathy! The bark is fascinating. You know I am a heart lover too, and find such delight in discovering them in unexpected places. I'm glad that the woods gave you comfort and a positive message -- we forget sometimes that there is so much love in our world! Happy Easter.
ReplyDeleteSuch lovely textures - you have a wonderful place to walk ...
ReplyDeleteReally loved this post, Cathy--I feel the same way about walks in the woods. I do love those little hearts you found :)
ReplyDeleteIt's nice you have such a special place to walk. Loving all the different textures you found on the trees.
ReplyDelete