Instants of beauty

Today I had to take a breath and pause. Three times I was in awe of the beauty of nature and whispered gratitude for being in such a remarkable and beautiful place.

I didn't have my camera with me. I wish I had, but I was walking to our mail box on our dirt road that meanders through the grass, dandelions and buttercups dotted the lawn with blooms, fruit trees hung heavy with apples and pears and plums on one side, blueberries peeking from the bushes on the other and near them, a lovely twisted willow.

Ponderosa Pine and Douglas Fir veiled the street. The sky shimmered blue with just a hint of clouds. I had to slow down and consume it. I honestly think moments like that, when you stop and realize how lovely your surroundings are - those moments are life giving.

Later I sat on the bench outside and watched the honey bees and bumble bees dance from one bright yellow flower to the next, some of them bouncing clear to the ground on wobbly stems as the little bees rummaged for nectar. What fun it was to watch!

And finally this evening I found joy as the big bright summer moon appeared on the horizon when I was driving home...a yellow globe resting against a sunset background.

How I love to be alive.