In Observance

I decided to take a drive within a few miles of our house to observe what is the beginning of Spring. Even though I have lived in this area my entire life, I am endlessly delighted in the surroundings this time of year. During my drive, I noticed how many cars were speeding along, passing me at times, in such a hurry to arrive at their destinations. Did this beauty pass by them without notice? Surely it was they that passed up the beauty. What a shame that is. I think because I am an artist and novice photographer, it goes without saying that I am an observer. I am always looking for a subject to capture whether to store in my mind or on a canvas someday or simply in a photo album. Sometimes to a fault. When I observe, I must remember to also be a participant. Slowing down, looking not through the camera, but with my senses. Smelling a flower, feeling the wind, or sun and just being in the moment. I know we all have our places to be, but I hope these images inspire you to slow down and observe what is before us and make an effort to wholly enjoy it.

The rolling green hills that evoke such calm and peace during Springtime in California. The oak trees are beginning to leaf out and absolutely glow in the sunlight.

Fields of wildflowers are unfolding before me.

Even the brush has a purple hue.

I turned onto a side road off of a bridge to see this stream rolling by.

This tree holds a treasure.

I love the texture of the rocks embedded in the hillside. They are so beautiful to me. The oaks cast the most magnificent shadows where the grass appears greener and more lush, perfect for a picnic.

The bright purple flowers were everywhere.

This oak, standing alone was so captivating. Symbolize it how you will, but for me strength in solidarity is beautiful.

This is perhaps a perfect landscape. I love the rolling grass and the oaks with their contrasting shadows. It just doesn't get much better than this.

I wonder how many locomotive engineers were able to enjoy this splendor. They had the road to themselves and landscape strewn all around them, without the temptation of "passing" other cars. How fortunate.