June 5 – Close to Home

Sometimes, photographic scenes come together without planning or great effort, as in this simple waterfall along Kingsbury Creek in Duluth. Blossoms, waterfalls, and fresh green leaves once again welcome summer to the Northland.

Kingsbury Creek tumbles down the Duluth hillside behind the Duluth Zoo in West Duluth. A relatively obscure walking path leads to this beautiful stone bridge built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. The quiet sound of water flowing beneath the old stone arch, surrounded by spring blossoms and new leaves, is a reminder that some of the most beautiful places are often close to home.

Spring and early summer are seasons of renewal and new beginnings, inviting us to step outside, clear our minds, and breathe the cool, fresh air once again.

“See! The winter is past; the rains are over and gone. Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come, the cooing of doves is heard in our land. The fig tree forms its early fruit; the blossoming vines spread their fragrance. Arise, come, my darling; my beautiful one, come with me.” — Song of Solomon 2:11–13

You don’t have to plan great excursions or long trips to enjoy nature. Sometimes all it takes is putting on your shoes and going for a short walk. The birds singing, the blossoms blooming, and the bees humming are all part of today’s blessing.