I scrambled out of bed, my heart pounding. I’d hit the snooze button too many times and now I would be late! I wanted to feed the chickens before my shower so I threw on a pair of old pants and a T-shirt, trotted down the old farmhouse stairs, stepped into my barn boots and opened the backdoor into a glorious summer morning. But I was in a rush, blinking the sleep from my eyes and squinting against the blinding rays of the newly risen sun. I headed for the small weathered barn that used to be painted a bright red but now just had a faint blush of colour. I decided to release the chickens into the grassy yard first.
The path to the chicken gate was narrow but well-worn. Long grass along the edges reached almost to my waist and brushed against my legs as I rushed through. But what was that? Ahead of me grasping the top of a tall grass stem was a large green moth. The weight of the insect bent the stem down in a lovely arc causing it to hang directly in my path. It was as if the moth whispered, “Notice me! Stop and smell the roses.” I snatched out my ever present cell phone and snapped some pictures of the exotic looking creature, sure that at any moment it would float away.
The urgency left me, melted away in a moment of natural beauty. My eyes started to actually see the vibrant colours around me, my ears heard the morning sounds, my face felt the soft breeze, my nose inhaled the earthy fragrances.
I captured a few more photographs to remind me of that morning, simple shots that bring me pleasure whenever I see them. I had never seen a luna moth before, and only one since. It was a special moment, stopping me in my tracks and making the whole day brighter (despite being late for work). Instead of being a nuisance, morning chores became an anticipated time for me to slow down and watch the things that make life special.
Chickens safe in the barn for the night
Part of the free ranging flock
Wild flowers by the chicken pen
Thistle by the gate
just luv to read these…when i am having a just here day..these always put a smile on my face …thanks so much..for these stories….the pic r also very beautiful…..takes me back to when i was a kid on the farm….
I’m thrilled that I bring a smile even on one of those days. You’ve made my day, thanks!
Hello Susan: I really enjoy reading your stories.
I lived on a farm for the first 12 years of my life and I connect with your tales.
I am considering starting a blog of my own. I would be interested to know how you went about setting up your blog and perhaps you have some advice for me.
Regards
Owen Mellow
Hi Owen, it inspires me when a story really connects with someone, thank you. And especially if it inspires you to write as well!
From the research I’ve done it sounds like Word Press is one of the best platforms to build a blog on. There are many “how to” videos online. It depends on whether you want to spend the time learning how to build it -or- concentrate on your writing. I hired an expert to build the foundation for me and I can easily go in and add my photos and stories on my own.
As for writing, it’s like any activity – the more you practise the better you become. Try to write a little every day. Some days it’s like pulling teeth, other days the words will flow like someone is dictating to you. You can go back over these daily pages and pull out the bits that shine. After you’ve written a blog post, print it and lay it aside for a day or two, then review it. You’ll see things to correct more clearly after you’ve distanced yourself from it. Hope this is helpful and good luck!