maple leaves
wiggle in the rain
an empty swing
– – –
Photo: Danville, Indiana, c.b.w. 2014
For years this tree swing swayed back and forth in the summer breeze. However, I never once saw anyone actually swinging on it. It always made me wonder if it was still in use or just a relic left over from a childhood long gone. This past summer, I walked the familiar route into town and found the tree swing was gone. Now, it’s a story I’ll never know.
Words: c.b.w. 2019
one last fire
burns the day
out in a blaze
– – –
Photo: Northern Wisconsin, c.b.w. 2005 (no filter!)
I’ve shared this image before, but it still offers inspiration every time I happen across it. It’s from a place not many know of as it is hidden carefully in the depths of the Northwoods in Wisconsin. In many ways, I consider it a privilege that I’ve been allowed to know the secret. It’s a place where loons call without the sound of cars or planes. At night, the sky is more light than dark because there are so many stars instead of city lights. Sunsets blaze across the sky and melt into crystal clear water. You can hear your own heartbeat fall into sync with gentle waves lapping the shore.
Words: c.b.w. 2019
thistles and grass
tired wings let go
and rest
– – –
Photo: Monarch Butterfly, Wisconsin, c.b.w. 2005
In northern Wisconsin there’s always something flying around up above and through the trees. Robins, blue jays, hummingbirds, and hawks all constantly glide overhead and rustle the leaves. For me, though, it was always about the butterflies. I loved how their wings glowed in the sun and how gently they fluttered through the air. They invite you to take a deep breath and just be present. Take time to touch a soft flower petal or taste a just picked blueberry.
Words: haiku, c.b.w. 2019
yellow petals
the sun shines
on both sides
– – –
Photo: Sunflower Twins, c.b.w. 2013. Years ago I had a garden of sunflowers in the back yard. Every once in a while, we’d get conjoined twins and I always loved the idea of “double-sided” flowers. They can see both sides of things and live peacefully together. We can learn a lot from something so simple and so poetic.
Words: haiku, c.b.w. 2019
still water
claims the moment
dragonfly wings
– – –
Photo: Watson Lake, Prescott, Arizona, c.b.w. 2013. This picture is much older than I thought! A friend and I took a little weekend trip up to Prescott for a little hiking, photography, and good old-fashioned bonding. It was an amazing trip full of incredible views and friendship. It’s funny how time slips by so quickly and we barely even notice until it’s long gone.
Words: haiku, c.b.w. 2019
