“what the sun lights up…”

But this: it is heaven itself to take what is given,

to see what is plain; what the sun

lights up willingly...

—Mary Oliver from “Daisies”

Today I read this poem, then read it again out loud. What I've been missing! That will definitely be my new routine. Read the darn thing out loud!

As I journaled I realized that the call to get out and walk at one of the parks was a necessity today, with the new idea of paying attention to what the sun lights up. I made a plan and got ready and drove to Lakes Park. The last time I was there I walked maybe a mile and stopped twice to rest on a bench. Today I walked nearly one and a half miles, mostly through the wooded area, and I didn't have to stop once. Progress is mine! 

The following photos will be my creative piece today. I'm calling this "caption poetry." I think I've made it up, but who knows? Enjoy my captures of "what the sun lights up" in Lakes Park on a Saturday morning.

The sun hits my back and a
long-legged shadow appears

The sun on the tree branches
demonstrate strength and growth

Sun on the rocks is shadow and light

the floating feather a lucky wish

There is always the moment of awareness
how the sun strikes the lake and 
silhouettes the trees

Even cypress knees are found
by the sun

A bench for resting, musing, being
with sun and water reflections

In the opening to the woods
a reminder from the Ladybug Man.
The sun shines here, too

Sun through the palm fronds
a neon effect

God is always the details.
Today she was in the woods
glamorizing the bay laurel leaves

As my walk ended
My gratitude knew no bounds
This place. This day. This.