A Spring Ramble

I went for a ramble in the spring woods yesterday... 

I said hello to a favorite old oak tree.  Judging by its girth, I think it's nearly three hundred years old.  When I was younger and healthier you could find me perched high in the branches.

It's still thriving though, festooned with lots of new ruby leaves.  I love the way the oak leaves start out red and then slowly turn green.  It's like autumn in reverse. 

The pink Sierra Currant bushes are loaded with blooms.  Come autumn, there will be lots of berries. 

The manzanita bushes are loaded with blooms, too.  I've always thought the blossoms would make wonderful lanterns for the faerie folk. 

I even found a faerie ring in the forest...one not made of mushrooms but cedar trees! 

It felt strange to be wandering around taking photos without my husband.  We used to spend huge amounts of time driving and hiking all over these mountains taking photos.  Another thing I must get used to doing without him.  I feel better, though, now that this first ramble without him is over...perhaps next time will be easier.