Ordinary Inspiration

Growing up in the Midwest, I’ve taken a lot of things for granted…change of season that is beautiful and colorful beyond anything I could imagine. I’ve taken for granted that lightening bugs get chased, caught, and released to continue lighting up the evening sky or backyard.  I’ve taken for granted that not everybody catches Northern Pike or little Bluegills in the local rivers or Great Lakes.  I’ve taken for granted that first, bright, crisp evening when you know Fall is arriving, as the smell of hot chocolate and donuts wafts from the concession stands at halftime on the football field.  The smell of leaves burning, bonfires where s’mores are eaten by the dozen, or the crunchy sound my boots make when they touch down after the first snow.  I’ve also taken for granted that bugs & critters live around the outside of my house.

Here were two that were visiting my front door and front porch this week.  I’m loving the camouflage of each,

although I am wondering if the moth knows he sticks out like a sore thumb on black screen?

With wings like this, I’m guessing it’s some kind of tree moth?

My flag pole holder is NOT an appropriate Toad Abode!

These inspire me.  Don’t laugh!  I’m taking more and more inspiration every day from ordinary objects, events, places, and things.  The way my avocado seeds sit like sentinels in my kitchen window… the sound my garden fountain makes as I listen and sew… the hummingbirds which visit my fuchsia plant out my back door… tomatoes as they begin to ripen on the vine.

What brings you joy?

What causes you to create?

What inspires you?

What makes you sing?

And an update in my 2014 Word-Herding Marathon:

Reactionary                         revolutionary                      discerning

Belief                                      observatory                         cool cotton

Analogous                            aimless                                  wondering

Manipulation                       testimony                             wracked

Finally, on a personal note, a couple of months ago we lost Rocky, one of our 4-legged friends to stomach cancer.  It was brutal because he was only 7 years old and well, yes, part of the family:

And a couple of weeks ago adopted another rescue… meet Sophie.  We sincerely hope she grows into those Yoda ears!

Meet Sophie Marie

Pay attention to what’s around you…it can be an inspiration!

Beth

<(((><