A star peers through my window as I drive. It is luminous, and for the past few nights it has been capturing my notice…almost calling me to pay attention. Whispering a message through its repeated appearances throughout the countryside, I pull over to listen. I gaze at the seemingly stationary star, and as I do, … Continue reading True North
Nature
An Interlude
From my first footfall, the tension I had been carrying in my shoulders started to evaporate. As my steps continued across the bridge, the water rushing underneath transported my cares away from me like white water over the rocks. I paused to breathe it in. Fresh air caressed my lungs, and the slight breeze tousled … Continue reading An Interlude
Web vs. Cocoon
I have always been intrigued by spider webs. They are so delicate, yet so strong. The intricacy is breathtaking…a work of art really. To think that an eight-legged creature created a web that lasts through storms and catches its food boggles my mind. I have walked through enough spider webs when hiking to know that … Continue reading Web vs. Cocoon
A Solitary Journey
When I was a kid, I remember listening for the snow. At some point in my young life, I had realized that it eliminates some sounds and insulates others. The quiet produced was a sure sign that freedom was mine, and that the next day would be full of frolicking and fun. I trained my … Continue reading A Solitary Journey
Fall Worship
Fall hiking is a form of worship for me. I try to get away early, to my quiet place, before the leaf lookers come out. It’s not that I mind sharing my backyard with the tourists, it’s just that in order to hear the sounds of the autumn choir, I like to be alone. However, … Continue reading Fall Worship
Down in the Valley
Down in the valley, the wind is carrying the truth with it. Down in the valley, tragedy and triumph are intertwined like poison ivy on a mighty oak. Down in the valley, surrounded by glorious color and golden sun, the seasons change. The steadfast mountains remind us that we are but temporary residents, and that … Continue reading Down in the Valley
Wild and Untamed
God often speaks to me through nature. There is something about a waterfall, or a misty mountain that is soothing to my heart. To be out in the forest on a trail is the place I get to know him best. Somehow becoming familiar with the creation opens my eyes to the creator. His personality … Continue reading Wild and Untamed
Dance of the Fireflies
If you have never been on the Anna Ruby Falls evening Foxfire hike I would highly recommend it. Six of us went last night and it was spectacular. I have to pinch myself sometimes to make sure I really live in such a beautiful place…surrounded by so much nature that it is even gorgeous in … Continue reading Dance of the Fireflies
A Nature Adventure
The day was fading fast. A slight breeze had the trees a bit restless. The heat of the afternoon morphed into cool kisses on my cheeks. An invitation to me. Perfect for an evening stroll by the river, and so Bill and I headed out to capture the last of the light. As we were … Continue reading A Nature Adventure
The Secret
Around the corner. Just ahead. Along the path. A rustling in my spirit draws me like a note in a song. It pulls my heart forward. I catch a glimpse. A shadow. A dancing light. My heart turns towards it. My eyes strain to see but there is nothing. Maybe the in the next curve … Continue reading The Secret