I made the opportunity to go mushroom hunting.
However, that would imply that I would have photos of yummy, yellow sponge morels to show you. The squirrel laughed as I meandered about.
I know my handicap in finding mushrooms, so I took my camera along. Maybe I could call it a photo-shoot instead of mushroom hunting? I wandered my way to the Kaskaskia River. The Redbud tree reaching and stretching over the river did not disappoint!
I also just love stumbling upon the old fencing from when Grandpa grazed cattle in the timber.
My thoughts spiral about … Did the fence, the cattle, the fact that Grandpa was an avid hunter (i.e. gun-carrier), and/or common respect of land help deter trespassers?
I remember the delight in finding Jack-in-the-Pulpit plants as a kid; and
imagining the forest animals gathering for a sermon by Jack. Is it just me, or do you see the cross in the trees and sunlight, too?
I didn’t “play” with that picture or the lighting. No flash was used … click and shoot with natural lighting. The timber is definitely a walking devotional time for me. So much to be in awe of ~ 
After walking and hiking ravines for literally hours, I decided the outing could be called a workout. I was then moving about as quickly as this guy:
It was time to head home with my empty mushroom bag, empty tummy and full camera memory card! But, wait! Let’s stop to smell Mom’s lovely lilac bush….
For today friends, I hope you enjoy God’s canvas.
Just Make the Coffee 
I do see a cross shape, but I think it looks more like wings and a tail.
My lilacs are in full bloom and smell wonderful!!!
I agree now that I have re-studied it. My sis-in-law pointed out to me that it looks like an angel!
What a magical world you live in.
Linda
http://coloradofarmlife.wordpress.com
Yes, I agree!
Your photos are exquisite. What a beautiful walk.So much to see and enjoy. Thank you for sharing 😀
I always come away wondering why I don’t do it more often … I don’t think it would lose its specialness. Life gets in the way, I guess.
Beautiful !
Thank you, Tracy!
I always enjoy a nature walk! Loved seeing the sights, and it didn’t trouble me one bit there were no mushrooms in the bag. I did see the cross in the light–very nice. My mom loved lilacs.
Nature … when it is kind, it is so peaceful to the soul.
AWESOME POST!!! Something about being out in the woods does seem to make us aware of God’s presence. He is all around us in nature…
Thank you! Yes, hard to ignore God’s handiwork when in nature. 🙂
Lovely. I miss having a lilac. The redbud in the yard is blooming and the bumble bees are busy with gathering it’s nectar. The dog tooth violet just finished blooming and the Virginia bluebells and violets are dotting the yard. Would really like to be able to have a nice meander in the woods.
The scent of lilacs is heavenly! Redbuds are a favorite of mine … and I have neither in my own yard!
There is something called flowering current, they’re kind of leggy bushes and occasionally have the odd current in the late summer, but the flowers, while small, are sunny yellow and smell sweet and spicy. Had one years ago and it died because there was so much salt from the sidewalk.