Year to year

Hi. Welcome. Something I've noticed recently, looking at pictures from this time last year, is how much difference there is in the tree color. We're just really starting to see colors develop (OK, chlorophyl fade) in this neck of the woods.According to DNR, the general area is in the 10% to 25% range. (WIld River State Park is listed at less than 10%.) Personally, I think 12.7% overall but what do I know?

start of fall colors              © harrington

Today's weather is a slip back to Summer that's supposed to continue until the weekend. I love this weather but haven't yet solved the how to dress question for cool mornings and hot afternoons. It seems as though I'm always taking something off or putting something on. This is the kind of day I'll try to remember next February. Most of the local sandhill cranes still seem to be around and most likely will stay for the next few months. I'm thinking of starting a "bucket list," and a trip to Nebraska to see Spring migration at the Platte River is likely to be on it.

sandhill cranes in field       © harrington

This is the kind of weather and the season to reflect on and enjoy:

The Summer Day

Mary Oliver

Who made the world?
Who made the swan, and the black bear?
Who made the grasshopper?
This grasshopper, I mean-
the one who has flung herself out of the grass,
the one who is eating sugar out of my hand,
who is moving her jaws back and forth instead of up and down-
who is gazing around with her enormous and complicated eyes.
Now she lifts her pale forearms and thoroughly washes her face.
Now she snaps her wings open, and floats away.
I don't know exactly what a prayer is.
I do know how to pay attention, how to fall down
into the grass, how to kneel down in the grass,
how to be idle and blessed, how to stroll through the fields,
which is what I have been doing all day.
Tell me, what else should I have done?
Doesn't everything die at last, and too soon?
Tell me, what is it you plan to do
with your one wild and precious life?

Thanks for listening. Come again when you can. Rants, raves and reflections served here daily.