Clematis

Nature always has a surprise to offer, whether it's a grand sunset, an encounter with a soulful furry critter (pet or otherwise), the power and majesty of a waterfall, or a simple "everyday" bloom. I came upon this graceful and elegant purple Clematis along a neighbor's fence while on a walk, and for a moment, I felt was deep in a shaded woodland. Earth blesses us with many gifts. Whether one chooses to look at this as the inherent bounty of the universe, proof of biodiversity, evidence of a higher being or grace, or simple serendipity, doesn't matter. The bottom line is that we are rich in beauty and inspiration, if we just take the time to look. Image c 2007 Lynda Lehmann.