Not all those who wander are lost
Date published 6 March, 2019
Winter wants love too
Winter is where we wait for summer, of course.
Actually, of course not. I like those warm sunshine rays just as much as you, but winter is beautiful too, and actually can really make you think. Is nature dead, or sleeping? Is it just waiting for spring too, or is it gaining vibrancy and preparing for new life?
All a bit too deep, perhaps, but often recently, whilst wandering outdoors in the winter, I have noticed something. Trees in winter are beautiful too. I love trees in winter. I love them in summer, too, but in winter they are totally different. Without the leaves they make complex shapes and silhouettes against clear winter skies, and shadowy, orange afternoon sunsets. And in some, we noticed, the magpies build bold structures that last for several years, and make homes more than once, clinging to the structures despite the winter high winds - and before the leaves return you can watch the birds making their trips to renovate the old nest, or build a new one, or manage their new chicks.
It is not just the trees, of course. The colour of the moors change for the season. The shapes of the hills loom as bold as ever. The range of colours on the plants and trees boldly show off, not now hiding amongst foliage. And still the pheasant runs in the field. And the fields - some cleanly and smartly ploughed, others giving bursts of hope that crops will appear.
Winter, like all seasons is a time for going out and wandering, to wonder at the sites. For sure, you will need a stouter shoe and a heavier coat. But still go out.
Winter light placing through the trees in Derwentside.
A path through the trees in winter.
We are happy snappers!
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