Awaiting Spring By The River

I am always inspired by the incredible beauty in my part of the world. Yesterday, I had the opportunity to venture out into the back woods by our river to enjoy special moments with a friend. Here is my share for you...

Awaiting Spring By The River

The mountains are still white-tipped with snow at home,

With bare ground visibly returning more and more each day,

The tall evergreens are standing tall like full-dressed guards,

While the other trees and brush await the warmth of Spring,

To burst forth this year's full growth of new leaves;

Tiny signs of life are starting to emerge after a handful of intermittent warm days,

Even though it is not yet truly Spring.

We ventured out into the back woods not far from home and sat by the river,

We watched and heard the chilly waters weave and flow through rocks and ice forms,

Also listening to the bright sounds of birds chirping,

Some of which we had not heard since last year;

The air was fresh and chilly, and the skies soft grey, but clear,

Even if the rains were expected in the late afternoon hours;

We sat, in this moment, appreciating this perfect visit.

Appreciating that our current life circumstances led us here today,

Appreciating that we could sit together and enjoy this place,

In the peace of nature and in the beauty of this season,

And in the quiet of this moment in the back woods by the river,

Appreciating that we had each other with all that was going on in our lives,

And in all we were about to face this year,

And we acknowledged gratitude for these lands, this place, and these beautiful moments, as we, too, await the warmth of Spring...

By Lise Parton

Please note that this area will be welcoming a lot of growth again this year after a ravaging fire two years ago, (evident my the top areas of my photo showing skeletal, burnt trees).