For the ancient Celts, Oiche Shamhna or Halloween marked the end of summer and this year it has without doubt ushered in winter.
My father knew the signs which accompanied the seasons and pointed to the weather ahead. When the curlews and lapwings left the nearby shore and sought refuge in the fields, bad weather was on its way.
As I grow older, I feel I am becoming more attuned with the seasons. Walking the countryside with a camera or a dog, I watch out for the signs of change - the lengthening shadows, the beam of light, the
new foliage or the dying leaf. I note when the tide is in and when the sun sets, not just for photo opportunities but because it's part of our landscape.
A sharp frost last night crystalized the fallen leaves and blades of grass. I hurried out to catch the
beauty of the ice crystals before the sun melted them before my eyes, seeking out the shaded ditch
and sheltered meadow.
I'm not sure if it's my age also but I too seem to be more in tune with the earth and her changes. I love those first signs of different seasons and welcome them. Lovely photos...makes me want a mug of tea!
ReplyDeleteYes, I actually had a mug of tea and a slice of barm brack when I came back inside:)
ReplyDeleteHere here! Whatever happens to us as we get a bit older, we are much more tuned in to the turning seasons and the fading ones in particular. Love your images as usual, the tiny hints of frost are so magical:~)
ReplyDeleteLovely pictures and yes, I agree with what you say. I have just returned from walking the dogs and I spent my whole walk loving being in tune with this beautiful part of the country - and, without meaning to sound slushy, just being grateful for it!
ReplyDeleteGreat photos. I love this time of year. The seasons changing signifies a time to reflect on the beauty of nature.
ReplyDeleteJune
And there really is nothing more important, in the scheme of things!
ReplyDeleteSuch beautiful pictures.
ReplyDeleteI feel that too - that age is bringing me back into the land and the seasons. I savour things now that youth would have me blind to.
Here - in New Lanark - I gauge the passage of time in sunrise and set; in the shadows cast by the big tree outside my windows; in the leaf bud and fall; in the noise of the river - full throated in winter and shallow high singing in Summer.
Your father sounds like a very sound wise man to me. And he has given you a real gift - to appreciate what is free and yet all around.