Leaf-carpeted Wolsfeld Woods
I have been working hard finishing up the final details of planning and preparing for a one-day retreat for 75 women, that happens this Saturday. Luckily I’ve had a great group of women working with me to create this day but it’s still a lot of work to complete the final details. I’m excited about the day and I will be glad when it’s over, just because of all the hard work we’ve all done to make it happen.
At times like this I find it really important to take time out to take care of myself. Yesterday I went to yoga class and by the end of the 90 minute class I was relaxed, refreshed, and ready for whatever the week might bring.
Today, I made time for a walk in the woods. I went to Wolsfeld Woods, one of my favorite spots for a walk. Almost all the trees were bare and with the gray skies today, the woods have taken on a distinctive November feel.
Sigh…
We have had a lovely fall, but fall is saying goodbye. The woods, carpeted with leaves, were beautiful and stark. Because the thick carpet of leaves often hid ruts and rocks in the path, I walked carefully. Even so, I tripped over a root towards the end of my walk and fell to my hands and knees, relieved that the fall did not damage my camera (or me).
With most of the leaves on the ground the “bones” of the woods were more visible today. All of the fallen trees and branches lay in stark contrast to the soft bed of leaves surrounding them.
Endings and Beginnings
The cycle of life and death in the woods is never more clear than when the leaves have fallen. I ponder the trees and their long sleep through the winter and wonder at life’s resilience and strength. The ending of one season of growth which will cycle round to a new beginning next spring.
Living through the seasons brings a deep understanding that every ending brings a new beginning. It doesn’t happen right away, and sometimes the endings are painful, but the cycle continues.
May you walk in beauty.
A spot of green in a carpet of brown
Is someone sleeping in the woods tonight?
Rocks and leaves
Reflections
Careful, there’s a rock in the path
Withered leaves still hanging on
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