Flowers and nature feel more needed than ever, at least to me. They are fixed things in a turbulent environment. Our world is in a troubled time. We all need to find a way to stay grounded. Nature, animals, and my love of photography keep me content. So does doing good for someone else. So does taking some deep breaths when upset or frightened. I also find meditating at different points along the way helpful.

I think the photos today show my feelings in surprising ways. Come and see. It’s free.

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Barn cats are mystical creatures to me; they are fiercely independent, savvy, and resourceful. They can effectively kill rodents, mice, and chipmunks. Their mission is to keep the barn safe from rats, rodents, and other creatures that bring illness. They can be traced back thousands of years in old farm writings. I see them as mystics in the sense that they appear and disappear and can sense my thoughts and movements. I often take my photos outside on the porch or a table, and while walking around.

They get close and far at the same time; they are their own creatures; they belong to no one and rarely come inside.

Zip appears the second I come out and stays with me while I take my pictures. The minute I am done, he expects a quick scratch around the ear, then goes off and disappears. I never know where he goes. He never goes near a road or vanishes when a hawk or eagle flies overhead. He loves being with me and loves going away from me. I love that quality in him.

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