But to discover this place was less than two hours from my home in Santa Fe all these years -- was a regretful reminder that we should spend more time exploring our own backyards.
It's a year later and I am now living back in Oklahoma and the lessons of the Bosque are well learned. On weekends when I am not traveling -- I take to the back roads - meandering to off-the-beaten-track places and making discoveries in my own backyard that constantly redefine my idea of home and place here where I live.
There is a great quote from turn-of-the-century naturalist John Burroughs that says, "The lure of the distant and difficult is deceptive. The great opportunity is where you are. Do not despise your own place and hour. Every place is under the stars, every place is of the world." I keep this idea close to my heart and relish all that can be discovered right here in my own backyard.
The Bosque is now 600 miles from home but the call to return is overwhelming. For the moment I am reliving the Bosque experience through other bloggers like Julie Zickefoose , The Hawk Owl's Nest, and Bill of the Birds. Meanwhile, plotting my return.
Sis got lots of lifers!
all images©2007 t.r. ryan
3 comments:
I so wanted to join this festival!! Thanks for your post regarding the event!
Your photos are so beautiful.
I keep hearing about Bosque del Apache. It truly must be one of those special places.
Great quotation from Burroughs. Thanks, and I like your attitude to travelling/home. Cheers T.R.
Post a Comment