Time to be still

I took these photos a few weeks ago. Now everything is covered with snow and we've left the time of year when the leaves are gone, the light is weak and the world is in shades of gray. I love this in between season because it is still and muted, waiting but not hurried. Then the snow arrives brightening everything, laying it's cozy, festive blanket over the ragged brown grass and scattered leaves.

In this part of the world we are just on the edge of winter and I haven't yet gotten tired of the short days and the cold. I like the stillness of the woods where to do lists and obligations can be forgotten. The barren feeling that is already being eclipsed by holiday preparations, gatherings and cheer. In the midst of this season which can get way too busy, find time to be still, to appreciate, to observe.