I’ve been busy painting, not the artistic kind, but the house-project kind: painting, sanding, staining. I finished everything I wanted to finish for now, although the entire project is still not quite done.
And then yesterday, I decided to take a midweek hike with a friend.
It was a very warm, humid day, softened by a mild, pleasant breeze. I always enjoy the drive to one of my favorite state parks, about 30 minutes from my house. I love passing all the farmland, watching birds in flight, and taking in the wide-open spaces until I reach the hilly, wooded entrance to the park. It is so beautiful here, and I never seem to tire of it.
The moment I get out of the car, I feel at peace. I can hear the breeze moving through the trees, the birds calling, and the water splashing along the riverbank. I take a deep breath. I thrive when I’m surrounded by nature. Don’t we all?
I’m ready to get started and move my body. Hiking is one of my favorite outdoor activities, although I haven’t done nearly enough of it lately.
I’m also thinking about my son, who is currently backpacking in the Grand Tetons with 12 other college guys. As thrilled as I am for him - and, admittedly, a little envious - I can’t say I’m not worried…just a tad. I will feel some relief when they all return safe and sound, hopefully carrying great memories that will last a lifetime.
But back to my hike.
My friend and I walk at a steady pace, chatting about this and that, stopping occasionally to drink water and taking in all the sights and sounds around us. As we make our way back toward the parking lot, we cross the wooden bridge with the stream flowing beneath it.
And there they were.
Three deer. A mama and her two babies.
We stopped.
I didn’t want to breathe, afraid that even the sound of my own breathing might chase them away. I didn’t want to take pictures because I was afraid that reaching for my phone would somehow ruin the moment. (I eventually did take it out, as you can see, and I am so glad I did.)
For a few moments, everything seemed to stand still. There was no rush, no noise, no list of things to finish or places to be. Just three beautiful creatures, standing peacefully in their little corner of the world, and two people lucky enough to witness it.
It was a moment filled with bliss. Full of beauty. Full of peace.
A moment showing us what the world was meant to be like, not only once in a while, but always. Us living in harmony with nature and animals.
A moment I didn’t plan for or expect.
A moment that was a gift.
And maybe that is the best thing about gifts like this - they keep on giving, long after the moment itself has passed.
This one certainly will for me. I am so grateful for it.
I started this monthly meetup for my paid subscribers—and for anyone who would like to connect with other photographers and artists from all over the country, share some work, and discuss new or old ideas.
Come join us!
Bring your coffee or tea and some new or old work to share. This is a low-pressure, welcoming environment where we exchange ideas, explore different approaches, and leave feeling inspired and refreshed.
In a world filled with upheaval, unrest, division, and hate, creativity still matters.
It brings us together.
It creates connection.
And I believe it can bring healing, too.
If you’d like to join us this Saturday, you can easily upgrade your subscription and become part of the group.
I’d love to see you there!
You will find the Zoom link below!
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