Stepping off trail, I carefully walked as quietly as I could towards what I call the swampy pond. Approaching the edge of the pond I chose a tree to half hide behind so I could scan the entire pond. I was looking for a specific breed of ducks, based on a very strong feeing I had that they were there. I stood stock still and as I did I zoned out, becoming One with Mother. All life ceased to exist except for what my eyes saw.
It was Heaven!
I couldn’t tell you how long I stood there for. However, no matter how much I stared and sought I didn’t see those darn ducks. I did see though some other ducks, a male and female Mallard Duck
and some long awaited signs of Spring.
I was so drawn to that pond, and merging with its existence all else faded. Suddenly a fast movement very close to the right side of my face startled me. Quickly I turned my head at the same time thinking a Hummingbird was flying next to me. But that couldn’t be right. Hummingbirds aren’t here yet.
Lo and behold I saw a Chickadee fluttering next to my face almost deciding to land on my right shoulder.
What happened next was my fault. Because I was startled, I fell out of my zone and no longer was One with Mother. That Chickadee instantly felt that shift of consciousness and instead of flying to my shoulder, he flew to a nearby branch to stare at me.
I was so enthralled by this experience, my feet barely touched the ground. It was so magical! I was spellbound! That heady feeling lasted that entire day.
Four days later I again headed for this swampy pond, that feeling I had before even stronger. I saw movement and as quickly and quietly as I could I again scampered back over to the edge of the pond. I set up my lens, looked through my viewfinder and just about shouted with joy!
Yes!! Wood Ducks are here!!
Earlier on that same day on the biggest pond in this park, I saw a speck of white. Could it be? Quietly I crept towards the pond’s edge to get a closer look and a clear shot, but that darn duck saw me and flew off.
(At least I tried!)
I watched his flight making sure I followed with my eyes where he landed. Sure enough he landed all the way over on the other end of this huge pond. Darn it, this time I would sneak up on this guy and get him!
I flew down the trail, took a left on another trail, then went off trail just about where I thought this white speck would be. Again I crept toward the edge of the pond looking and looking. There! I spotted him! In a flash I got my camera and lens ready to go and when I looked though my viewfinder, I saw him.
A male Bufflehead Duck!! YES! I got him too!
Buffleheads do not stay here long and from my experience do not show in large numbers. They are probably flying into this park for a rest before they continue on in their migratory flight. I did some research and found out a little about Bufflehead Ducks if you would like to read it. I found the information fascinating.
Thank you for joining me today on my adventure. There will be many more to come, I promise you. Between the action that is going on in my gardens and the birds that are flying in, I will have more then enough to show you. Would any of you like me to hire you to do my gardens? Please? LOL
Photography/ “My 2 Gifts +” /April 2020©AmyRose Photography
http://www.herladypinkrose.wordpress.com
All Images watermarked for protection.
Ah Amy, to touch Mother is a blessing indeed. That love heightens our senses, lets us see what others cannot and guides us to what is waiting for us.
And miracles are built on those very blessings dear lady, thank you for sharing them 😀 ❤️ 🙏🏽 🦋
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Mark, what a beautiful comment! Bless your heart! I love sharing what Mother allows me to experience. And in so doing, I hope that those who do see what I show, begin to understand what a glorious relationship anyone can have with Mother if they choose to do so. Much love to you this day! Have a great weekend!! xo
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Beautiful photos Amy, I just love ducks. There are so many different species and the colors are magnificant. I rarely see anything but Mallards. Like you said, some of the other species are just stopping by in my area. So it is a treat to see one. I love getting to locations like that where you can just get lost in time for awhile. Have a good day Amy.
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You are so right, Sandra. There are so many species of ducks. In fact, I found another species April 1st which I have not shown (yet), a type of Grebe. It is a treat for me to see as well those that migrate here. What joy!! I attempt to get into this park and others as much as possible. And as you know, this is where I get lost in another world. (smile) Have a great weekend!! Much love to you! xo
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Superb shots of those ducks, especially the Mallards and Wood Duck!
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Thank you, Hein. The Bufflehead is so tiny (pigeon size) and was so far away, I consider myself fortunate to have gotten any images in clearly. I would love to sneak up this guy but they are very people shy. Have a great day today!! xo
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Beautiful pictures, Amy. I love seeing nature wake up to spring. Keep plugging along out there. Stay safe when exploring.
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When I step off trail, Dan, the biggest concern is ticks which I take precautions for. I am very aware of where my feet step. Nothing will prevent me from documenting Spring walking up. I’m so glad you enjoyed my pictures. I was thrilled to see what I did that day! Happy Weekend!! xo
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Thank you for taking us to the pond (and literally I was THERE through the exquisite pictures!) 💚 Nature is heaven! Stay well 🤗
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You are so so very welcome!! Nature is heaven, I totally agree with you. When we allow ourselves to let go, relax, and get into the Moment, we before our stunned eyes, walk into another world. This is the world I prefer. (smile) You stay well too! Much love to you! xo
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Xoxo 💚👏🏻
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Very beautiful and inspirational pics Amy ❣️Glad you’re still getting out stay safe gf peace and love xox 💕💁🏻♀️❣️
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Thank you ever so much, Beautiful Light. I refuse to give into fear and I will continue to go to the places I love so that I can witness the Miracle of Spring waking up. Much love to you this day!! xo
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PS Do you have a blog? You don’t have a link after your name for the notifications so there is no way for me to get there if you do. Please let me know. I always view everyone’s latest post who comments on my blog. xo
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No hon I don’t have a blog yet maybe in the future I’ve just been going through a lot in the last couple of years I’m mtf and it’s been challenging with everything that I’m learning and going through with the hormones and electrolysis and growing breasts and my body changing gf 💁🏻♀️❣️But I kinda get a break every once in a while and kinda escape thanks to your beautiful and inspirational pics it just takes me to another place and time thanks so much for that it takes away some stress ❣️ I can probably send you a few pics if you want keep doing what you do it’s truly amazing and a lot of people appreciate it your friend Stacy Anne peace and love 💕 xox 💁🏻♀️❣️
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Stacy Anne, I am touched you trusted me enough to tell me your story. Bless your heart! It clearly comes across to me, as an empath and sensitive, that your energy is feminine. Perhaps some day you can open a blog to encourage others not to walk away from their dreams, no matter how difficult it is. Keep strong and love yourself for who you are. I will be posting as often as I can with the Beauty I see. It is people like you who I am so grateful to the most, who genuinely appreciate what I freely give here. May your Sunday be filled with love, peace and laughter. Much love to you! xo
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My direct email is stacyannekeen@gmail.com dear and thanks for being inspirational ❣️
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Hon, truth be told my life does not hold too much room for back and forth emailing. I take care of special needs cats (our family!), some of them who in their older years have stopped eating and I have to feed them by hand for a total of 10-12 times per day. That is only part of what I do. There is lots “other”. Then my home and all that entails. My photography. My blog. My gardens which I am just beginning to open now for the season, which are massive in number. I have “special needs” as well which means it is imperative I create a PT routine for myself consistently. I am also married so as in any relationship, it takes time to keep the relationship strong. I would love to have the time to chat with you, honest. I will copy your email, however, just in the event I do have a slot of time open for me just to sit and chat. Much love to you!! (((HUGS)))!! xo
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Thanks hon for being you and yet giving even more inspiration ❣️ It definitely sounds like you have a full plate gf try not to wear yourself thin xo ❣️When I started my journey it was definitely scary and difficult at times it took me awhile to be submissive to who and what I am and was meant to be it was like going the wrong way on a one way street but now everything seems to be flowing and smooth I’ve never been happier there’s always gonna be a few bumps but that’s life thanks hon for sharing all beauty and inspiration to all of us that understand and appreciate it have a great Sunday lots of ((hugs))xox Stacy Anne 💁🏻♀️❣️
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See? With what you just wrote here, you can touch a lot of people. You have learned compassion, and self-love. You know what a difficult journey is and to not give up no matter what. I can relate, believe me. If you have time read a little about me in my main menu. I started life with no love and a lot of abuse. Today I know who I am and will not budge from who I am. Amazingly, with a lot of Inner Guidance, I now respect and admire and love who I’ve become, the person I was meant to be. Yes, I understand. SMILE! xo
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Beautiful pictures.
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Thank you, Rabirius. xo
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Absolutely beautiful.
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Thank you, Gigi!! Have a great weekend and stay happy!! Much love to you! xo
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Wonderful pictures Amy and they help people who stay inside during this crisis to enjoy beautiful nature outside.
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YellowCable, you are so very welcome. I will continue my outdoor adventures as I witness Spring come to life and I will show all that come here what I see. Today I will be crawling in my gardens to capture the action there. (smile) Have a great weekend!! xo
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Beautiful photos of life springing into action.
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Thank you, Tim, SO much!!!
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Stunning photography accompanied by inspiring narration. The best of both worlds…..Bravo
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Oh wow, bless your heart for this amazing comment. I am so honored and so touched. My major is photography with a quick and sure majorette in writing following right behind. (smile) Duo action. LOL Have a great weekend!! xo
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Beautiful pictures.
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Thank you, Anja!
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Hi Amy! Beautiful world you are showing us.
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Hi, Dana! Oh yes this world is the world I prefer! I absolutely am enthralled by it and will not cease to be amazed by it. SO happy you stopped by to see what Mother allowed me to see. Have a great weekend!! xo
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Gorgeous creatures. A family of ducks lives on the river here. They are delightful neighbors. Wow, about the chickadee. It’s funny how they are the ones that seem to come closest, while larger birds keep their distance. Have a beautiful weekend, dear Amy.🦆🦆🦆
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Thank you SO much, Julie! I love hunting birds, especially the migratory ones. One year this nature preserve had Loons fly in, something out of the ordinary. I missed that event however, being so busy in my gardens. I honestly wish I could hire someone to do my gardens so I could have more time with my cameras. You know what? I am going to put that “request” out to the Universe and trust I am not only heard, but I will be answered.
We have a Mr. and Mrs. Duckie (Mallard) that nest near our property and every year they come waddling across our backyard to eat the birdseed. I smile every time I see them.
You have a beautiful weekend as well. I’m heading back out to continue on my gardens. Muscles that I haven’t used since last Fall are being felt. Keep smiling and sending out your Beautiful Light into this troubled world. Much love to you! xo
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Lives being lived everywhere. 🙂
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AGREED! In the most unlikely places sometimes. GRIN! Have a great weekend, Colleen!! xo
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Thank you for virtually taking us there! The pictures are magnificent 🙂
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Oh wow, THANK YOU! I am so touched by your words and am thrilled just thrilled you came by to see this post. I have so many more beautiful posts to come. My next one will show some amazing life in my gardens. Just have patience because this is my seriously busy time. Between opening my gardens for the season and my intent on photographing birds, landscapes and flowers, I am a human whirlwind these days. LOL Have a wonderful weekend, Parikhit. xo
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I am eagerly waiting for your beautiful pictures! I can understand! I have a little busy with my terrace garden, a little one and Spring time is here. I am waiting with bated breath for the buds to blossom! Stay well and have a blessed Sunday 🙂
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Great shots Amy!! OMG love the Bufflehead duck! I’ve never seen one nor did I even know they existed before seeing your photo! It’s quite exciting to get something like that – congrats! I understand what you mean when you talk about being one with Mother – nature sees you are a part of them and not an outsider! Have a great weekend! Much love, Donna
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Oh, Donna!! I got such a kick out of your comment! Your genuine excitement came clear across to me. You GET ME! And you understand the thrill of the hunt to capture what I do. Yes that Bufflehead Duck led me a good chase, darn duck(!), but I was so determined to photograph him. Isn’t he exquisite? There is another duck I saw another day that I plan on posting soon. These are transitory birds here. They come in, rest and then poof, gone. I would love to get over to this nature preserve every day to check the status quo but …. I’ve started on my gardens and the weather dictate the time when I can go. I follow my “instincts” so when I do go, I am rewarded plenty! I’m not surprised you understand about being One with Mother. It is the greatest feeling on this earth, IMO, one can experience. (besides sex LOL)
I am having a great weekend. I just came in finishing up what I wanted to in my gardens, and changing lenses on one of my cameras, am heading back outdoors to shoot some flowers. THANK YOU so much for what you said here. It is genuine people like you that keeps me going here on this blog. Bless you from the bottom of my heart!! You have a great weekend too! BIG (((HUGS))) xo
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Such a lovely variety of ducks, AmyRose. They are such a miracle of Mother Nature.
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I saw another species of ducks the last time I visited this nature preserve and am crossing fingers to see more, if I am lucky. Yes I did get pictures of this other duck, not very good ones cuz these guys were so far away but that didn’t stop me. So glad you saw this post of what Mother in Her generosity gives me. Much love to you! xo
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So wonderfully beautiful!
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Thank you and bless you, Nico!! Much love to you and every happiness!! xo
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Thank you Amy! Peace and blessings to you.
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Thank you for sharing your beautiful experiences at the pond, dear Amy ❤
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You are so very welcome, Irene. May your Sunday be beautiful and full of laughter. Much love to you! xo
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Thank you ❤
Take good care of yourself, dear friend
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Looking forward to more, Amy! Keep ‘em coming, my friend!
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Aw, Scott!! I plan on keeping them coming as best I can. I feel moved so deeply lately about what I am seeing and experiencing in my magical journeys within this forest. May your weekend be wonderful and filled with laughter and fun!! xo
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How wonderful that you can be out in nature and experiencing these other friends. I especially like the Bufflehead duck. Take care.
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Nothing is going to stop me from going out in Nature at one of the most exciting times of the year for a photographer, Ali. So many birds are flying in right now and my excitement is bubbling over. I can’t wait to return to this nature preserve to see what I else has come in. Just today I saw a Purple Finch and an American Goldfinch in our backyard. YAY!! Finches are back!! Have a great Sunday! Much love to you! xo
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So great to hear your enthusiasm for the birds. I can’t name many but listening to their songs from my yard is one of my favorite sounds. Keep the photos coming. Love to you.
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Your pics make me feel connected with nature.
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And that, Snehal, is my intention. Applause to you! YAY! Have a great Sunday!! xo
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Stunning captures, Amy! Well done! ❤
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Thank you, Eliza!! Your high praise means so much! Bless you! Have a wonderful Sunday!! xo
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Yes, if you find a nice, comfortable, sheltered place to sit, you will soon become part of the landscape and birds will come to see you rather than flying off at top speed.
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I agree, John. I’ve been being still and just watching a lot more of late. It’s really nice!!
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Amy, you have such an affinity with mother, truly it’s something quite magical and extraordinary. Thanks for taking us along on your adventures. I adore your photos. 💚 xxxx
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Dear friend, Mother has allowed me entry in Her world so deeply at times I honestly have trouble believing it myself. To walk in that bliss is certainly heaven for me. It is magical. There is no other way to say it. Thank you so much for viewing my latest posts. I so appreciate the time you took to do so. Much love and HUGS!! xo
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❤️🌹🙏😘
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you, my friend are a “breath of fresh air!”
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Aw, Michele, bless your heart! Thank you! xo
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Being confined mostly to my apartment, it was really refreshing to see those beautiful pictures. 🙂
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Shweta, please go outside for walks when the sun is out. I would be out of my mind if I did not go for my daily walks and get out into the forest. I don’t know how you are doing what you are. Much love to you! And you are very very welcome for my pictures! xo
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The government regulations prohibit us from going out unless it’s for a grocery run. But in a country as densely populated as India, it is required. It would be a catastrophe if community spread were to occur. Many people who were supposed to be in quarantine had violated that and stepped out. So honestly, I don’t feel comfortable going out. But my balcony is long enough. I can walk around there and look at what’s happening around me. Blogging is keeping me sane. And my friends and family who are constantly in touch. Tough as it may sound, it is a necessary evil. We have to contain the disease. And there are a lot of people under quarantine near where I live. So I’ve got to the all precautions. So I’m perfectly happy. 😄 Thanks a lot, dear. You stay safe. Take care.
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Shweta, I understand. Just stay safe and hopefully soon all this will be over and we all can breathe a bit easier. Good to know you are happy. That is SO important! Much love! xo
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Yes, hopefully it’ll be over soon. Take care, dear.
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It’s a wonderful feeling when our feet fly off the ground .,.
As we become one with Mother..
Your patience and blending paid off Amy. As your beautiful images testify.
What a special moment with that chickadee 🙂
Such a special place you have there to go to.
Here parks now being closed so the people will not be tempted over Easter.
I
My escape is being on the allotments and in my own garden.
Watching the birds in my garden gather food for feeding their young.
The temperature here unusually warm.
Stay in that zone of yours Amy. It’s the best place to BE my friend.
Love your way 💕❤️💕
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I know when I need a taste of that zone, Sue, for that is when the nerves begin to get frayed, especially nowadays. How shocking that parks are closed where you live and I mean that! Don’t these parks realize that people can and are obeying the social distancing and they are able to do so? Too much has been stripped from everyone! I am so so sorry that the one remaining place people can go is closed. How much more people can take I honestly don’t know. The stress of this situation in of itself will have vast ramifications on health if already not doing so. This is why it is so vitally important for me to stay calm. This too shall pass and what is on the other side is only anyone’s guess. Much love to you!! xo
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I’m not sure which gave me the most goosebumps. The magnificent photos of the ducks – all of them – or the imagery (the interior visualization) of you getting into the Zone with the One. It’s an (often) once-in-a-lifetime experience, getting into that Zone. You’ve inspired me to take my time, move more slowly, and try entering that Zone also. Blessings and Peace to you!
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Pam, this I can attest as truth. What I experience is “not” a once in a lifetime experience. I experience it all the time when I am out with my cameras. I fall into such bliss, such magic. It’s a learned state of being, yes, for all thoughts stop except for the NOW and all of life around you fades except for the NOW. Letting go of this world to walk into Mother’s World is one of the most powerful and healing aspects of my life. I “think” if you try it won’t happen. Get this “feeling” in your heart that you hold no expectations and you succumb to what Mother gives you. Get lost in the beauty around you and breathe it all in. It’s the art of being still within. You can do it. When Mother acknowledges that you are to be trusted as you show Her respect, the magic begins, and a Sacred Relationship develops. Much peace and many blessings to you! xo
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Okay, you have convinced me! Now that the weather is warmer (kinda, almost), I’ll have more opportunity to just sink into Nature as I walk for miles. ❤ I also feel this way when I sit on my front porch (on warmer days) and watch the birds on the bird feeder. Bliss, indeed.
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There you go!! Happy Adventures!! SMILING!! xo
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Wow! So lovely creatures and nice shots!
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Thank you so very much! xo
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