The Storms of Summer

I think everywhere in the world understand the storms of summer can be rough but here in the US summer storms bring severe thunderstorms, derecho winds, tornadoes and of course downpours.

While the rain is being enjoyed by our community garden, the wind has not been our friend. Early morning storms today played havoc for a decades old oak tree by our church.

You can see the top portion of this beautiful tree was broken off like a match stick.

The clouds, since daybreak, have been ominous as they pounded us with water.

But the flowers still prove that they can survive, maybe even thrive as long as the winds stay clear of their tender stems.

And as the clouds begin to dissipate, George, the neighborhood Red Tail Hawk, calls out to remind us that all is well and to always trust in the creator of all things to create beauty after a storm, regardless of where the storm that may be happening.

I close with a reminder to be kind especially in the midst of a storm. It will make the storm more bearable.

Weekend Sky #60, 3/26

Today we have more fun with Hammad Rais and Weekend Sky #60. I just had to play along as the sky today has been tumultuous, from rain to spiting snow and now the wind is crazy. We are under a wind advisory. BUT, it makes for great pictures. Even though I am no professional, it is fun to join in. So come show us your beautiful sky.

The Red Tailed Hawks are not even having to do anything but stretch out their wings and float on the currents of the wind. But the contrasting gray colors with the occasional blue patches of sky is what makes it so beautiful.

Since we are talking about weekend skies, I leave you with a sunset image of kindness for you to reflect on.

**Always Be Kind** ***enough so that the deaf may hear your kindness and the blind can see it.***

Have a great weekend.

His Name is George

I do love my yard during the spring and summer months for all the many birds that come to visit. You can tell the difference in the younger ones who have not fully fledged out yet or got their adult colors. This morning George stopped by with his high shrill and really upset the other birds. George is a hawk. My phone does not have a good zoom and cropping made him fuzzy but still he was beautiful.

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Here is a picture I took yesterday and the sun made a neat effect. George is on the stump of the tree in the center. Hopefully by Christmas I will have a real camera with a true zoom lens where I can really play.

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Since I live close to a state park, we have more than the normal wildlife. Deer will walk down the street like they own the place and groundhogs will zoom through your yard as well. Here is George flying and squawking at his other brother George as they search for food.

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Although my pictures are not great, they do show the beauty of nature all around us. This beauty reflects God’s love of creation and wanting to share it with us. So when outside, take in all the beauty around you and when you see something special, smile and know this was a gift given for you to enjoy.

And as always be kind…to all kinds.

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