Darker Nights and Fiery Days

“Fall colors are funny. They’re so bright and intense and beautiful. It’s like nature is trying to fill you up with color, to saturate you so you can stockpile it before winter turns everything muted and dreary.” – Siobhan Vivian

I am feeling more in touch with nature these days. Instead of railing against the early darkness now at 4:30, dusk starting at 4, I am getting out to walk in the darkness. To feel into the close of these fading fall days.

No need to hurry home, I am relaxed and peaceful taking my time to watch the Christmas lights come on, the sunset (at the top of the post) and the moonrise.

Hawks are around more with the colder temperatures. As I listen I can hear their calls. And sometimes am surprised with sightings right across the street on the rooftop. Hawks are messengers, so it’s time to listen…to my inner knowing. What do I need to hear at this time of year?

And then there is this in the garden. Pansies still blooming in pots through the freezing temperatures and the snow. I love seeing them persevere through these harsh conditions. They fill me with strength.

Did you know the pansy represents the thoughts of lovers. They are named for the French word for thought “pensee”. Pansies are said to possess telepathic magic. I can believe that. I sometimes seem to hear them speaking to me as I gaze upon them as a lover would. One of my favorite flowers. I miss growing dozens from seeds, but sadly I don’t have the room for the equipment to grow them. So I will buy dozens in the spring to plant in the garden, and watch them seed themselves.

And so I took one bloom to bring in for a magical vase. How could I not?

I added a few sprigs of foliage from a lavender plant also still in great condition.

The vase was placed amongst the Christmas decorations and lights on the table.

With this vase, I am joining in with the wonderful meme, In A Vase On Monday, from Cathy at  Rambling in the Garden.

All the pictures shared in this post were taken with my Nikon Coolpix or iPhone camera, and manipulated on my iPhone using the apps, Pixlr and Prisma. You can follow my progress with #the100dayproject in my Instagram and Facebook feed.

All original content is copyrighted and the sole property of Donna Donabella @ Gardens Eye View, 2010-2023.  Any reprints or use of content or photos is by permission only.