Texture

These feathery Japanese Maple leaves epitomize the lush green of summer.  All too soon they will begin to blush a deep burgundy-crimson.

Blossoms and Branches

Spring is here.

Tonal

These celery heart rosettes are so lacy in this black and white context.  I'm enjoying the patterns of nature today.

Another Moonrise

These dark photos -- I know -- my old cell phone's camera never does the moon justice, but it hasn't stopped me from trying when the sky is roiling with drama and the lunar orb is peeking in every window and won't be ignored.

Ah  -- I love this photo anyway.  I also took a short video, and a shot of the moon setting in our backyard this morning a mere 9 hours from this photo.  Since videos haven't shown very well in the blogger format, I shared it on my Instagram:  @midlifelight -- take a peek if you like.

Whimsical

Yes, I placed him by my stepping stones many years ago, but now he has witnessed many things and taken on a patina all his own.  He celebrates his living, croaking brethren around and within the babbling waters of the nearby creek.

A Holy Hue

Maybe not for everyone else, but for me this vermillion shade is holy. 

Coming across it in nature is a communion of sorts with my Mom.

My sweet OA had always noticed it everywhere -- these berries, cardinals, flowers -- It was a pigment she well employed in her art, and utilized in self expression with the wisp of a scarf, or upon her painted lips.

When the brilliant cardinals emerge from these pyracantha bushes, I know that she's here.

Happenstance Reflection

I was lucky to catch a glorious moonset the other morning as I rose for the day. The orb was sinking so quickly behind the treetops.  As I scrambled outside, I realized from my vantage point it had already set.  Back inside, so focused on capturing the moon, I didn't even notice the reflection of the interior room is more prominent.  Such is tunnel vision.

Our Carpet of Moss in Winter

Amidst a sea of dormant brown, opportunistic spores have beautifully filled this patch of lawn left barren from summer shade. It loves a chance to glow in the winter sun.

Respite

Lifelong friends, live jazz and a nightcap~

Camoflage

Ellie blends seamlessly with our snow-dusted lawn.

Inner Glow

On a dreary morning, this still-bedecked fig tree is the first light.

One Last Look

Clearing and freshening now, but still noticing the light.