There is still bright green, cheerful moss on the forest floor, surrounded by a carpet of now dry, pale fallen leaves and pine needles. The mushrooms have all dried and shriveled. I saw one tiny, purple thistle flower on the side of the road today; an accidental bloom.
Holidays are bittersweet. Even after 21 years, I miss my own mom as I navigate changing relationships with my young adult children. Moments of great laughter mixed with moments of strain, heavy dinner table conversations–I still have to tread carefully.
The woods makes me happy. This little lake makes me happy. Even with the absence of color, the gray skies, the bare branches.
I’m not unsure of myself in the woods.
I dream of sumac and milkweed (and other wild things) 
I took a walk in the woods and came out taller than the trees.
Henry David Thoreau
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That’s beautiful. ❤️
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This small lake is such a beautiful, peaceful spot to enjoy nature and let worries and cares slip from your mind. Gorgeous photo.
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Thank you so much, Peggy. It really is such a peaceful and secluded spot.
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