I have fences on my property. I live on a hobby farm and had livestock. They served their purpose. But today’s featured photo of a hoar frost fence, albeit very capable as a fence, served another purpose. It became an object of delicate beauty. One tap on the fence line and it would vanish. Hoar frost is extremely fragile. This image, too, a moment in time now immortalized. We see fences everywhere – some real and some figurative – but this was one of the most beautiful I have ever observed.
I sold real estate back in the day. I always said it was bare knuckle business – very competitive. Agents would figuratively build fences around their customers and clients so that no other agent would try and snag one. Those fences were necessary for the business to succeed. I used to quip to my clients – when showing a fenced property – fences make great neighbors! I was joking. Great neighbors make great neighbors. But a great fence was something to be admired and often served a necessary purpose.
I saw an irony when I took this photo. The hoar frost fence – that is, the fence underlying the hoar frost – was still sturdy and durable. The coating hoar frost, on the other hand, was more delicate than a a newborn kitten. Soft and hard, soft and loud, Rock ‘n Roll, Led Zeppelin . . . see how my mind wanders? It’s a gift and a curse. Back to the hoar frost fence.
What is hoar frost – and why does it form on a fence
Hoar frost is created in specific climatic conditions. It has to be very still to form. I believe the humidity level needs to be high and it may have something to do with the dew point. The hoar frost fence and hoar frost vegetation, including up to trees, creates glorious splendor – especially with a bright blue sky. But, like sunrises and sunsets, it doesn’t last. The Sun bears down on the hoar frost and the slightest breeze drops it to the ground. Gone in just moments. And it is the coolest effect – like a microburst snowstorm. I just love being in the woods when it falls!
The name comes from Old English and means ‘old’ as the frost can look like white hair on vegetation.
Fences in our lives
Fences are considered pretty permanent. They need to be when marking boundaries or used for containment and security. But some fences in life are constructed in our minds and on our hearts. Some of those fences might serve us better if they were taken down. If it were so easy as to knock down a hoar frost fence!
Always be prepared
I hope you enjoy this photo and allow it to remind you beauty can be found in nature in unexpected places. We need to watch for it and be prepared for it. I typically prepare with my Nikon D850 but was without it on this morning walk. I was so thankful the little Apple iPhone SE pulled through for me.
My office has two large windows facing to the west. A GREAT place to view sunsets. Additionally, Deer walk past, Squirrels tussle, Blue Jays are on the search for nuts and seeds. It’s a constant display of great moments. Moments that make me smile. Spontaneous action that prompts me to grab my nearby camera and head out! Moments in time. Take time to appreciate the moments – and tend to your fences. Maybe consider taking down those personal fences you may have placed between yourself and others. Give them a nudge and reach out. The fences might drop like a hoar frost fence.
Be sure to stop by RedBarnProject.com to view additional photos of hoar frost in trees. Pretty cool! And while you are there, check out some of my Galleries. You’ll find Landscapes, Chickadees, Mallards, Bald Eagles, Hummingbirds, Owls and so much more! Peace.