Tranquil Trails

This is on one of the trails

in the Solana State Forest–Sandstone, MN.

A chilly November moment;

warmed by love of the trees.

An early walk in Sibley State Park was dew-covered & teeming with life.

A reminder that even when not seen–somewhere,

something magical is happening!

This is a trail leading to the scenic overlook of the bluffs of the

Mississippi River in Perrot State Park, WI.

A sweet spot briefly savored while hiking and lingering in memory

in its idealized form.

This view is from Needles Highway–Custer State Park, SD.

I dream I am there

longer than a fleeting rest stop.

I dream the flowers are more than a figment of my imagination

and I easily walk the path in a timeless state of serenity.

To commune with nature—step right this way–

and don’t delay!

The spring ephemerals will soon fade away. . .

(Myre-Big Island State Park)

Everywhere I walked along Chimney Rock Loop was a balm

for my senses and a wonder.

The damp red earth cushioned each step,

my eyes thrilled to each new turn on the path; everywhere a landscape filled my vision

with an almost supernatural beauty.

And each breath was full of the healing fragrance

of creosote, pinon, juniper, salt cedar—all growing in the warm sun and fresh rain.

Divine satisfaction!

So grateful I have a chance

to get close to this–

new surprising nutritious beautiful original

sunshine I can hold in the palm of my hand.

The Ojibwe people are the original

caretakers of this land and water.

I will do my best to do the same.

At Blue Mounds State Park,

there is a trail that follows along

a cliff line of beautiful Sioux Quartzite.

There you can see a flock of Turkey Vultures

as they soar and glide on the air currents. They are

undisturbed by the coming storm; as are the bison grazing nearby.

We feel the electricity in the air and are ready for whatever comes next!