I have said it before and I shall say it again, Mother Nature never ceases to amaze me. She is an endless source of inspiration and subject matter to fertilize the ingenious mind. She provides an endless array of materials to work with from natural paint dyes, materials for texture, clay materials, stone, etc, etc. She provides simple lighting to change visual perspectives and emotional inflections with lightening, bright sun, to a sunset rosy glow She provides a plethora of sounds for the innovative musician with pattering of rain, birds chirping melodiously at sunrise and dusk, the roar of an avalanche, whisper of the breeze or bull elephant in full charge mode. Mother Nature has orchestrated a world of amazement for our inspiration and bliss. Mother Nature,j or Gaia (Mother Earth) as I prefer to call her, is our Provider. It only stands to reason that She would bestow us with everything we need for the meaning of life and its’ expression.
Continue reading “Inspiration Is Everywhere !”
Nature’s Oddities – Potoo Bird
Oddities, there sure seems to be a never ending list of oddities found in nature. Last week I came across the Potoo bird from Venezuela. Immediately I looked it up because very rarely do I take the word of an internet post as fact. Not to mention that bird just did not look real. Figured someone was trying to pull the wool over my eyes. Lo and behold, the Potoo bird is definitely one of nature’s oddities.
These birds are located in the humid forested areas of Central and South America, as well as in areas of Australia. They prefer the edges of the forest near open areas where food sources are more plentiful. They stay in their local habitat all year round and do not have any migratory cycles. They are monogamous. which actually puts them in danger. Some rural Brazilians hunt and kill Potoos for their feathers. They believe the feathers have the power to ensure chastity. Therefore, they hunt the Potoo for body parts used to perform ceremonies that will ward off seduction. At times, they actually will eat the bird, although there isn’t much meat.
Continue reading “Nature’s Oddities – Potoo Bird”
Meeting With Nature…Why Hello Mr. Snake!
Little Dog and I went for a morning walk yesterday. Nature just loves crossing my path but not with what I want to cross it. I was on the hunt for those huge thistles growing on the side of the road. Wanted some good pics for my collection. Well, well, well no thistle to be found BUT there was another one of my snake buddies. Half in the road and half in the grass. Almost ran him over with the stroller. Little Dog’s stroller, as he can not walk that far anymore. He is 13-1/2 years now and slowing those little pupper legs down. He loves his stroller though. When we get to a place of stopping, I let him out to wander around and stretch those short little legs. Continue reading “Meeting With Nature…Why Hello Mr. Snake!”
Walking With Nature
Walking with nature brings joy to one’s soul. To be in the sunshine and hear the wind blow. The cry of the birds as they soar through the sky or perch upon the earth resting their wings. Watching them scurry along the ground in search of tasty morsels. Just to be and to heal surrounded by the forcee and true beauty it presents.
The cacophony of the world subsides to nothing as you embrace the surroundings. The worries and pressures of daily life melt away. Even the physical aches and pains of the body subside and cease to cause worry.
For myself, the sea is Mother Nature’s tranquilizer. Simply sit upon the sand, eyes closed and face tilted toward the sun above instantaneously relieves all tensions physical or mental. Regenerate, recharge and revive my spirit just being in the presence of the sea and its creatures.
Breathe deeply taking salt air into the lungs. Each cell is revived. The brain is cleared of pesky cobwebs and clutter. 
An instant reset to entire system. The only side effect of this tranquilizer is true comfort of a relaxed yet productive presence for the remainder of the day.
Going early in the morning or during evening hours has been the most pleasurable. The intense heat of the day never does anyone a favor other than a sunburn or heat exhaustion. The early hours or later hours are the most serene. You have the beach basically to yourself. The greatest hours to take leisurely walks collecting shells for crafting, spotting driftwood, and mostly 
taking photos without being bombed by all the people passing by.
Just gazing upon the power of the sea in every wave that pounds the shore is a reminder of the power we have within to create our lives. The sound of the waves crashing is music to my ears. The squawk of the gulls is the harmony. The sand between my toes and the water splashing on my legs. A natural relaxant and free pedicure. Never neglect to gaze out onto the sea’s vast expanse and you may see dolphins. Early enough in the morning you will capture a gorgeous sunrise.