A walk in the woods

Hello ladies,

I walked through the Rancocas Nature Center today with my friend Sarada. We strolled through the sleeping meadow, among a gathering of conifers and then through the bare deciduous woods, made green only by the occasional holly tree. I love being among the evergreens this time of year. On a warm afternoon, the tree sap becomes like a perfume, heralding and resinous. I love the feeling of walking near pine and cypress trees. Time feels immobile and the earth seems devoid of seasons and changes. It is the definition of pure quiet for me.

There were the prickly seed pods of Sweet Gum trees suspended in ice along the path. Much of the snow had melted into the earth or created temporary marshlands. There were a few lengths of icy pathways that felt like walking over an aquarium containing felled twigs and leaves.
A view from a footbridge.

Evidence we were not alone. Deer tracks ran side by side boot prints on the path. I love happening upon a deer run.

The feeling of being outdoors after a stretch of winter weather is such a gift of the seasons. Have any of you ventured out in the woods recently?

Happy painting, ladies!

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