Nature is my inspiration, it is what keeps me going

at times she can be unforgiving, destructive and one of the most powerful forces in existence

at other times cradling and giver of life

always amazing

always a teacher 

mirroring the importance of balance

of darkness and light

of struggle and achievement

of life and death

I stumbled upon this beautiful bird and aspen grove today on a three-hour hike at Golden Gate State Park, not far from where I live. I've been in awe of the birds I've been seeing lately. My great grandmother, my grandmother and my mother all have a passion and connection to birds. I guess it only comes naturally that I would have a fascination with them as well. I remember watching the beautiful birds in Iowa and in Minnesota as a child. So colorful. There aren't many birds here in Colorado in comparison and I miss them. There are hummers, which will be here any day now. I'm excited for their arrival. There are also magnificent birds of prey. I see eagles almost everyday on my way to work. Not sure if this one pictured above is an eagle or a hawk. Looks like a young bird, so it's hard to tell. Either way, he/she made me happy today and I'm glad it let me snap the photo before flying away...