My late father-in-law fondly referred to springtime as the crowning glory of life. While we appreciate all the seasons, there’s a special anticipation for the arrival of Spring.
Admit it, you’ve been eagerly awaiting the subtle signs for quite some time. Well, the moment has arrived! Spring officially graces us this Tuesday!
My husband always keeps a keen eye on the trees as they begin to bud. Everywhere around us, signs of life are emerging. The delicate white blossoms of service berries, redbud, dogwood, and ornamental trees paint a picturesque scene. Not to mention the vibrant yellow Forsythia bushes, with the promise of lilacs blooming soon.
The array of flowers is simply breathtaking! From Jonquils to Sweet William and an assortment of wildflowers, nature adorns itself in colorful splendor. Even in our own yard, tiny blue flowers grace the landscape, often overlooked by many. The grass grows rapidly, boasting a lush green hue.
And who can miss the melodious chorus of spring peep frogs? Often mistaken for chirping birds, these tiny Spring Peepers add a magical soundtrack to the season. I recall a memorable moment with my husband David when we stumbled upon a branch resonating with the peepers’ symphony. Their synchronized silence followed by a sudden resurgence left us in awe. It makes you wonder, do they have a conductor orchestrating their performance?
We eagerly listen for their enchanting calls at every watering hole during our rides. This year, our son Randy was the first to catch their song. He’s always attuned to nature’s cues, like the tradition of capturing a photo with his turkey by our blooming lilac bush.
As the wild greens start sprouting, memories of foraging with the Atterberry Family flood back. Varieties like Narrow Dock and Carpenters Square, with their distinctive leaves, evoke nostalgia.
In the past, mushroom hunting was our passion. We’d venture into rugged terrains, collecting an abundance of mushrooms. From spotting the red ones in March to navigating cliffs and brush, the thrill of the hunt was unmatched. Despite a few tumbles, like David’s comedic yet nerve-wracking slide down a hill clutching his mushroom bag aloft, our enthusiasm never waned.
However, health challenges redirected our outdoor pursuits towards photography in retirement. Our albums are now filled with snapshots, particularly of majestic Eagles.
Recently, we even captured images of a Bear near our home, reflecting the resurgence of Black Bears in Missouri. Sightings are on the rise, especially in the Southern regions. Additionally, Mountain Lions have been spotted, with one unfortunate encounter with a vehicle locally.
Bobcats are becoming more prevalent, yet they are timid creatures. A memorable encounter with one near Tebbetts stands out, a reminder to stay cautious yet appreciative of wildlife.
Deer and turkey sightings still evoke excitement, but our recent encounter with a stunning Wood Duck stole the show. Pausing by a water hole to listen to the Peep frogs, we were treated to the sight of two pairs of Wood Ducks, a rare delight during our rides.
Reflecting on our observations, my husband and I marveled at the profound lessons nature imparts through its creatures. From the biblical tales of the Raven and Dove in Genesis to the unique nest-building skills of Bluebirds and Eagles, nature’s wisdom is boundless.
Contemplating the intricacies of the natural world, we’re reminded to respect and cherish its wonders. As we embark on another day of exploration, armed with our camera, let’s embrace the mysteries waiting to be unveiled in nature.