In the Wasatch Mountains. Whispers of Spring

 

Myrtle spurge or donkey tail spurge.

***

Today following a familiar trail in the Wasatch Mountains, I stumbled upon clusters of delicate wildflowers unlike any I had ever seen.  They gathered together in quiet abundance, subtle yet striking, the awakening beauty in the most unexpected way.

Thankfully, I didn’t touch these flowers.  Later, I learned that they can irritate the skin or cause eye injury if touched and then rubbed.  

A reminder: always be careful with unfamiliar flowers.

Generally, life is good.

Lichens in Bloom

Bright specks scattered across the slender tree like tiny fires of orange and gold. Life has a way of flourishing in the most hidden places.

Generally, life is good.

The Last Light of Day

 

Two Canada geese glide in perfect rhythm across a glowing sunset sky.

Generally, life is good.

Notes to Self. For the Best, Perhaps

 

Sunrise on Bear River MBR.

***

Lately, life has been delivering one surprise after another—and most of them, I must admit, have been far from welcome. 

Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge will be closed until mid-September. In just a few weeks, construction will begin on the small bridge that has long served as our entry into the bird sanctuary.

A new temporary route for photographers and birdwatchers is expected to open, though I find little reason for enthusiasm just yet. We simply don’t know how the birds will respond to the river being diverted along this new route.

***

I keep telling myself that whatever is happening is happening for the best. Some days I believe it more than others. 

This sudden change at Bear River MBR feels like a loss—but perhaps it is also a quiet invitation to see differently, to slow down, to step away from what I know. Maybe the birds will surprise me. Maybe I will surprise myself. For now, I am learning to wait, and to trust that something meaningful is still unfolding, even if I cannot yet see it. 

Generally, life is good.