Relax

This week’s photo challenge is to post an image that is relaxing. This is a photo that I took on a hike through the woods back home. For many of us who grew up near forests, there is something very relaxing about being amongst trees. Living in the midwestern U.S., now, it is always a little strange to me when I hear someone comment about hating being someplace with too many trees.

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For more on the relax challenge.

Overcast Winter Morning On Konza

I realized recently that I haven’t been doing much photography lately. So I decided that I was just going to have to make a point to rectify that situation. An early riser, I decided to head out to the prairie to catch the sunrise this morning. (I hadn’t thought to consider the weather conditions first.) I got there just as the black of night was starting to lift. It was freezing cold and quiet, except for the sound of gravel crunching beneath my feet. As I headed uphill toward some of my favorite views, I was startled by a pair of does. It was exciting to be so close.

As the sky started to lighten, I could hear, but not see what I believe to have been a flock of turkeys, their calls so loud in the stillness.

 

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The morning decided not to treat me to the colorful sunrise I had hoped for, yet the gray sky and low clouds made what color there was seem all the more vibrant.

It was a challenge trying to get good photographs this morning. I don’t do much low light photography.

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This tree always strikes me when I pass it on the trail.  It reminds me of a rhinoceros.

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A little bit of unexpected color … .

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A few more hills to climb … .

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… and a bit of woods to pass.

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Crossing the creek … and  then heading home to warm up before the rain.

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Wishing you a lovely weekend and hoping that you get a chance to do something that you’ve been wanting to do too!

 

Happy Thanksgiving

Thinking of you, as I get ready for Thanksgiving …

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One of my favorite recipes for Thanksgiving: Orange Carrot Soup.

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… and another Bordeaux Cranberry Compote.

 

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Don’t forget festive libations, including for designated drivers. This is my Black Tea Sangria, served over ice, with apple slices, mandarin orange slices, and frozen raspberries, then topped off with tonic water. I’m still looking for a good name for this mocktail. Have any suggestions?

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Don’t forget to spend a little time in nature to get away from the hustle and bustle for preparing for the holdiays…

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May everyone travel safely…

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Warmest wishes to you for a most lovely holiday season!

Morning Moths

 

One of my favorite things about this time of year is all of the activity that takes place in the garden.

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When in bloom, Garlic Chives (above) and “Autumn Joy” Sedum (below) are always sure to attract butterflies and moths.

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Wishing you a lovely end of summer day!