My Forest

Today was the first time I had been in the forest since returning from Belize. We went on my favourite hike from childhood and I still love this spot.

The forest was almost silent. Most birds are in hiding to undergo their annual molt. Why draw attention to yourself if you don't have to? Baby birds have fledged and family groups are moving quietly through the woods. If you know bird songs, you can hear the young males practicing their songs quietly, out of tune, out of time, but getting ready for next spring when they will compete for their own mates.

I wanted to capture the feeling of my home forest - the green dappled light and the pattern of the maple leaves. This is the forest I grew up with and the forest I will always know best.

The pattern reminds me of stained glass -- a forest cathedral.