Beautiful weather! And there I was, taking it all in – camera in hand – and casually touring the yard – a walkabout in the wonderful outdoors. I stood still and I listened to sounds so familiar. I stood still and reveled in the warming sunlight. It was a gorgeous day! What did I see? What did I hear? Nuthatches! They were all around me. Nuthatches are cool with their little ‘meep, meep’ vocalizations. Hopping down a tree limb – upside down. A gravity defying bird if there ever was. And to my great fortune, I happened across an entertainer. A real poser. This particular Nuthatch wasn’t at all shy of the camera. I had a blast!
Enjoying a walkabout
I enjoy a good walkabout and this was to be no exception. In addition to the Nuthatches, there were Squirrels – or as I refer to them, “Squoyles.” Loads of them. I scanned the tree trunks and limbs. There were many eyes on me. So much life on a Winter’s day. And to add to the festivities, several flocks of Trumpeter Swans and Canadian Geese were crisscrossing the sapphire blue sky. The Trumpeter’s muted call seemed especially loud. Their soulful calls stirred many past memories. Fantastic memories. I so wanted to get a couple photos but the tree canopy was obscuring my view.
It felt great to be outdoors. The fresh air filling my lungs, that warm sunshine. Man! In that moment I was complete. In that moment I had desire for nothing more than to just stand there, watch and listen. I was at peace.
A photogenic Nuthatch
Now let’s get back to the photogenic Nuthatch – and one of his poses I especially like.
Did you know Nuthatches are not Woodpeckers. Nope. Not related. Although they bear some striking similarities to Woodpeckers with their powerful beaks and uber-strong claws. Unlike Woodpeckers, however, they do not leverage against a tree with their tails – and, they are not Woodpeckers. There it is, a learning moment.
More than just a walk – it’s a walkabout
A walkabout is more than just walking. As I mentioned, I was in “my place” on this excursion. The woodland setting, the warmth and sunshine – and wildlife – gave me a deep sense of peace. It was a time of deep meditation.
Seeking peace. Do I seek peace on a walkabout or does peace seek out me? I don’t know, but their is a deep sense of connection with Nature that I feel when I’m out amongst wild life and wild places.
Here is something to consider: I don’t consider myself to be a property owner, but a caretaker of property. It was, before I was, and it will remain long after I’m gone. It is these days of presence on this Earth we each have opportunity to become fulfilled and enriched by greater things and greater designs. So much to ponder. Life is awesome!
Fear the tree
I have a tree on the property – a great Green Ash – that is getting old. It has a large hole in its base. I have watched it and fretted over it, for 27 years, thinking it will some day come crashing down on my shop, smashing it into oblivion. However, I noticed the other day a new a feature – something even more ominous. A long crack running up the trunk a good 14 feet. Yikes.
I’m concerned for this tree and what it is capable of in way of wielding out destruction. I’m going to have it looked at very soon – I have a call in to a great “tree guy” and I know he will provide the guidance I need. I hate cutting down trees but sometimes it comes down to safety. I guess on the upside, if it has to come down, I will have firewood for my shop into the next decade!
Anyway, I wandered over to – and under – this tree on the walkabout when I suddenly heard crackling above me. I’m a few years older now but I can still leap like a deer when needed! I made an incredible jump away from the tree and started on a deadbolt sprint. I looked back expecting to see the tree headed my way and . . . nothing. Nothing, that is, but a noisy Squirrel. He looked down from his perch on the tree and seemed amused with the commotion he created on the ground. Little bugger! Scared the wits out of me.
Lesson learned from a Squoyle
I snapped a couple of Squirrel photos just for the fun of it. One was snacking on some snow. Even Squirrels need to stay hydrated. Drink your water! Why? Because it is important for overall health – from heart to brain to skin. (Who da thunk we could learn health tips from Squirrels?!?)
May the Peace of the Season be yours today and every day
This blog post really centers on the harmony of Nature and harmony in our own lives. It is truly a treasure. I desire a harmony in myself – of body, mind and spirit. That Harmony is available to each of us this Christmas season and throughout the year. Each of us finds it in their own way. Meditation, reading, or maybe just quietly taking in Nature – a leisurely stroll – or a walkabout. My wish for you is that you experience the Harmony of the Season and embrace the Peace freely given. Peace to each of you!
