Patience in the Snow

A steady snowfall today. Big fluffy flakes, falling every which way. Hypnotizing, spellbinding, calming, the perfect balance between stillness and movement. I went out to take some pictures, and mostly saw places of waiting and moments of patience. Winter is imbued with the qualities of patience, endurance, and introspection.

Here are the birdfeeders waiting patiently for the birds to return. The birds are in the branches right now, head under wing, waiting out the storm. The feeders keep their food dry, knowing the birds will fly directly to it as soon as the snow lets up. I look at the feeders, and see the birds flitting about them, pushing each other away, chirping, dropping hulls.

Our log bench swing waits patiently for our return in the spring. We Lightly swing on it as we discuss what's for dinner, or the next lawn project. My favorite moment so far on it was looking up at twilight and seeing a Great Horned Owl softly land on one of the oak branches above.

As I was walking around, I surprised a large rabbit. He darted out from the prairie grass he was hiding in, and ran to the woods in back. He waits patiently in the grasses and rocks for the snow to stop, and spring to come. Here is one of his tracks. 

After identifying the Redleaf Rose by the shed, I intended to make tea from the hips. I never did, and they still sit squarely on the branches, holding all their vitamin C inside. They wait for spring, when pretty pink blossoms will gently push them off, and the birds will find a tasty snack to fuel their nest-building.

 The Panacle Hydrangea's rosy petals have become amber, and they hold the snowflakes up like spun sugar. They are sweet and delicate in every season.

Finally, the birdhouse looks like it's listening and watching for new spring tenants! Patience and endurance always pays off, and I know he will be full of eggs and baby birds come spring.