Finding Nature's Beauty Even on Cold, Grey Winter Days

It's the first day of winter. That time of year for cozy fires and indoor projects. It's also a great time of year to enjoy nature with greater solitude. There is nothing like the peaceful stillness of a winter day after a new fallen snow.







Even on days like today with most of the snow  melted away, winter hiking provides beauty and solitude. Although wildlife may be sparse, the sky grey, and all things green faded to brown, beauty abounds. You may find beauty in the color quartzite boulders, or the delicate patterns of snowflakes.

This time of year, sometimes that beauty is all about winter foliage. Once the snow does pile up, the stillness is incredible. I plan to borrow some snowshoes, head out, and prepare to be amazed. Until then, I'll be out admiring winter's dried foliage.