My daily routine includes a walk outside whether through my neighborhood or in a new town that I am visiting. These walks give me an opportunity to explore and take note of what I am seeing along the way in nature. Sometimes a flower or an insect; a bird or some other critter catches my eye, stopping to take a quick picture in appreciate that sometimes serves as inspiration for a writing prompt or watercolor entry in my sketchbook.
I have been thinking a lot about trees and in various stages of the year as well as their lifecycles. The stump with concentric rings reminds me of the years and decades of life, reflecting back we remember certain milestones such as completing one’s education; moving to a new town; developing new friendships and memories bringing about a fresh start.
The vibrant colors of turning leaves bring a warm familiarity to one of my favorite seasons – fall. The changing colors of the leaves symbolic in the realization that the year is nearing the end as we begin thinking about getting cozy with “sweater weather” and other images that come to mind during these fall months. Looking back and seeing where we have been and what has taken place during the year and what we might wish to accomplish before it is complete.
And then there is a tree branch showing new growth, an image that represents to me many possibilities. The visual reminder that no matter what age and stage one is at in life, it is always possible be curious, learn and continue to grow. Just as the new green tips of the trees sprout out, so can we as individuals have a fresh start to a new chapter – something wonderful to look forward to.
