18 Comments

Absolutely beautiful. Never knew that someone else felt as I do about ladyslippers. I seek them out every year,at times without success. I am entranced

by their, impossibility, beauty and delicacy. Greatly enjoyed this piece

Expand full comment

extraordinary. i love walking in these journeys with your words and photos

Expand full comment

I love that you choose to come along. Thank you for accompanying me, and offering such kindness, Alix.

Expand full comment

Thank you for this exquisite description. It reminds me of my husband who loved the woods, knew every birdsong and tree. Would groom his trails in the moonlight and bring home antlers. He wrote a news letter to his skiers similar to yours. I thank you for bringing your love to us and for reminding me of who he was.

Expand full comment

Ohhh, Betsy, I'm so touched by your note and so very pleased to meet him, some remembered part of him this way. Thank you. May his memory be a blessing.

Expand full comment

Beautiful. Honest. Truly elegant. The process, your writing, the photos. I’m so glad you are doing these longer pieces. Very inspiring. 🙏

Expand full comment

A gorgeous commentary……and a reminder that as good as artificial lighting gets, it can’t compete with Mother Nature!

Expand full comment

I do not have the skill or finesse that the moon does. And I am just fine with that.

Expand full comment

Kissed by the moon …

and morning light assures you didn’t just imagine the beauty.

I most usually read these writings with first coffee - this one best suited to the settling of my day as the sky darkens. It’s hard to say for certain, but this may be one of your best, David.

Namaste 🙏🏻

Expand full comment

I thank you, sincerely, Jann. I really wanted to get this one right.

Expand full comment

I loved wandering along with your words, to feel just a bit of what it was like under that wide-sky moonrise as the Lady's Slippers danced. I liked the pact you made. I liked hearing of all those moments you didn't hurry through---and this:

"Birdsong trailed off as darkness deepened..."

The long wait shows true devotion---and the moon rewarded you well---and the owls!

Thank you--I love this for so many reasons...

All of it beautiful, so full of forest mysteries, and, yes, "...best of all, true."

Expand full comment

You are such a thoughtful reader and such a skillful storyteller, Toni. I'm always enriched and touched by your insightful comments and generous encouragements. Thank you, once again.

Expand full comment

Thanks for the smile you gave me.

Expand full comment

You just returned the favor, Robin. Thank you.

Expand full comment

Absolutely magical. Real magic, not just glitter. Thank you for this blissful vision.

Expand full comment

"Real magic, not just glitter." I love this!

And you, dear Sheila are most welcome!

Expand full comment

I remember a lesson from you years ago, to photograph what is, not to be tied to what you intended or expected. I so love you put yourself in a position, by the light of the moon, to be ready for the magic. Bravo, my friend.

Expand full comment

How possibly can I convey how much your kind words mean to me, my friend. I am smiling in camaraderie and gratitude.

Expand full comment