Naked Woods

Winter in the woods.  I have always been one of those people that never could find the beauty in nature during the winter months.  You know... everything is drab and grey.  Many trees are without leaves so they appear dead on first glance.  I heard this referred to once as the naked forest.

                   

But under all that plainess there is life waiting to burst forth.  If you look hard enough you can see it.

Notice the red buds on the tree in the right corner

There is a sweet quietness about winter in the woods and in the campground.  You can hear the wind through the pine trees if you are still and listen.  You can hear the chirping of the birds and the playful game of chase the squirrels play.
                               

The woods will be waking up soon.  The tiny buds in the barren trees will swell and burst open producing beautiful leaves and there will be many shades of green everywhere.  The animals will be busy finding places to raise their young.  The sun will be warming things up nicely.

Until then we will be enjoying our walks each morning or evening in the naked woods.

               

Notice the chipmunk on the tree stump

                                     "Come to the woods, for here is rest."    John Muir