One of my favorite writers. Henry David Thoreau, (1817 to 1862), was an environmental scientist, philosopher, and poet. His book, “Walden,” is a favorite read of mine.
Walden Pond
After reading “Walden,” I wanted to visit Walden Pond. My own personal tragicomedy evolves around my mecca to Walden Pond. I was so excited. I packed my well worn copy of “Walden” and camera and headed out to see the pristine pond. However, the reality of Walden Pond totally smothered my vision of her. In my mind’s eye I saw myself drinking from the pure, unspoiled pond. Flourishing flora and fauna. The beauty of nature wherever you looked. Eden.
The reality of Walden Pond would have brought tears to the eyes of Henry David Thorough. There were warning signs posted – No Swimming – due to unsafe bacteria levels. Trails were worn into the mud and dirt as one circled the pond. But walking the trails proved to be an exceptional challenge. There were sunbathers lined up like Sardines on the trail. One had to literally step over bodies. Instead of fresh air, the scents of tanning oils and sun block filled the air. Radios blasted. Coolers to trip over. And as you stepped over bodies, you got scowled at. I took not a single photo.
Recovering with Henry David Thoreau
I returned home and reread the book. My vision was restored. One of my favorite quotes from Henry David Thoreau is, “Blessed are they who never read a newspaper, for they shall see Nature, and through her, God.” I can connect with that. I wonder what images of Nature Henry David Thoreau would have captured had he had a camera?
No television
People are amazed when I share with them I haven’t had television in the house for 27 years. I don’t have a favorite show. The concept of “must see” TV doesn’t exist. My television is the outdoors. I get only one channel but it offers great programming! The theme of all programs is solitude and meditation. Peace. (Except when a Great Horned Owl or Sharp Shinned Hawk happens to make an appearance, clutch some hapless critter and rip it to shreds.) Nature is Nature and all of Nature has to eat to survive. Reality TV on my Nature channel.
Pileated woodpecker
Speaking of outdoors, I managed to capture a couple poses of a Pileated Woodpecker the other day! He was in demolition mode when I spotted him – blasting a hole into a dead tree. Amazing birds. I have written about them previously but never tire of their presence. The balance of this blog post will largely be a pictorial of the Pileated. A Pileated Pictorial!
Closing thoughts with Henry David Thoreau
“It was summer, and now again it is winter. Nature loves this rhyme so well that she never tires of repeating it.”, Henry David Thoreau. We are supposedly going to receive a winter storm today. 5 to 11 inches of snow are possible through tomorrow. Winter tightens its grasp on the land. Depending on the conditions, I may try and capture some cool snow landscapes.
I love walking out in a snowstorm. There is a beauty to it and it is especially appreciated when out amongst the snowflakes. It may turn into a blizzard, however. Wind gusts are expected. That is not as fun. But if it blows, there should be some cool drifting. Snow drifts certainly add something to the landscape.
By the way, I’ve ended my Holiday Sale at the RedBarnProject.com but I also made sweeping price reductions across the boards. I want my photography to be obtainable, affordable. I’m not out to get rich on it – I want to share it. Check out the pricing and let me know what you think! While your checking out the pricing, maybe find something to compliment your living space!
The Holiday Season can be a mix of emotions – family and friends arriving from near and far – and leaving again. Sometimes we feel we need space to ourselves and sometimes we want to immerse ourselves in the gatherings. Inhale, exhale. Breathe deep the Spirit of the Holidays. Enjoy the time together. I have spent time together with family and friends. Now it is time for me to follow the words of Henry David Thoreau: “I have a room all to myself; it is Nature.” It is where you will find me. Peace.
