Tuesday, January 31, 2012

In the Timber Grove

In winter, the bones of the landscape are more visible, prominently displayed in lieu of bright blooms and lush foliage. Textures and dark hues dazzle the forest, and what is hidden in other seasons is more conspicuous.


The harborages, dens, burrows of the inhabitants of the wood are there in the tree trunk and the forest floor. What could be finding home here in a tree?




Or snuggled up inside this log, veiled by leaves, moss, and forest debris?


A few years ago, a fox used this den and raised some kits. No foxes have been here since. Is it abandoned or has a groundhog taken up residence?


Some of the dying branches relinquish their bark as if to release the latches on an old cage door.


The elders here stand tall and proud, displaying their deeply grooved wrinkles as an emblem of honor and endurance.


And others stand tall in the light of the sun, their mass beguiled and broken by age, rain, and wind.


The youth of a tree at the edge of the wood opens its jacket to embrace the elements.


Its layered veneer curling and peeling to reveal the smooth and soft heart of innocence.



As the end of the day nears and the sun flashes its last ray, the reflections of elegance in Timber Grove softly bid good night.


I will be joining This Grandmother's Garden for Walk in the Garden.

© copyright 2012 Michelle A. Potter

10 comments:

  1. I love this time of year with all the colors and shadows playing off of bare tree trunks. It allows for great bird viewing:)

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    Replies
    1. I agree...the birds are much easier to see. And other things are much easier to see as well.

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  2. Great textures and colors, winter makes us appreciate the subtleties of nature.

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    Replies
    1. It took me a long time to realize that, but I am so glad I see it now.

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  3. I love images of bark--and you did the subject justice! Thanks for taking us on the tour!

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    1. Bark is so beautiful when we view it up close...and then there are those trees with bark that is beautiful at any range.

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  4. Oh, this is gorgeous! The light at the end of the day made for some very beautiful photos.

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    1. Thanks, Holley. I find that time of day is usually a good time to photograph...morning, too.

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  5. Fascinating... love this post, Michelle. You've truly discovered some treasures on your walk. Thanks for joining me!

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    1. I enjoyed it, Carolyn. There is a lot to see at this time of year.

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'I see trees of green, red roses, too
I see 'em bloom for me and for you
And I think to myself, what a wonderful world'
--What a Wonderful World

Thank you for visiting The Sage Butterfly blog. I enjoy reading your charming reflections very much. Have a great day!

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