Natural Companions

Dr. Suess once said, ‘When you look around, this life is pretty amazing.’

I thought about that as I watched this little chipmunk scurry across a path. In that moment, he and I were fellow travel companions. The chipmunk, searching for food, and me, enjoying an early morning walk through the wetlands.

I’m always excited to see nature beings, and even more delighted when they pause for a photo.

I never feel alone when I’m in nature. The trees, and plants, and animals, and stones are wonderfully intriguing companions. And perhaps they feel the same about me.

This life…what an incredible adventure.

(Click link to see more photos: wandernature.com/new-photos)

Life Lesson

Imagine being able to fly. To have the ability to flap your wings and propel yourself anywhere you wish to go. I thought about that as I watched this lovely butterfly flit among the flowers.

If I could fly, where would I go? What would I see? How would my life be different?

And then a thought took hold. This little butterfly wasn’t watching me, or wondering what his life would be like if he could walk on two legs. He was content just being himself, enjoying his butterfly day.

I suspect animals don’t long for things or wish for circumstances to be different. They simply move from moment to moment, being who they are.

So as the butterfly disappeared into the trees, I laid down my wishes and wonderings. And in that moment, I appreciated just being a human on a warm summer afternoon.

A life lesson…inspired by a beautiful butterfly.

(Click link to see more photos: wandernature.com/new-photos)

Determination

He looked fiercely determined, this beautiful young buck standing in a field of tall grass.

As I watched him, I had a thought. There was nothing lukewarm about this deer. I suspected he lived each day as a grand adventure, fully embracing each and every experience. I envied him…

And I had a wondering. How am I living my days? With intention and enthusiasm, or simply repeating old, worn-out patterns? What dusty thoughts and beliefs are preventing me from living whole heartedly?

I suspect it’s time to look deeper.

And with renewed determination, I wandered on, inspired by a beautiful deer…

(Click link to see more photos: wandernature.com/new-photos)