A rebirth from the winter wrath, spring is one of four temperate seasons; spring, summer, autumn or fall, and winter. Transitioning us from winter into summer, spring is ushered in by the earth's cant, relative to the sun, creating lengthy days with more appealing temperatures. We recognize spring by the singing birds, sprouting trees, blooming flowers, growing grass, and a yearning to plant our own spring gardens, both the vegetable and flower gardens.

      There are many events associated with spring such as spring break, spring training, spring planting, spring fashion, and many more. Spring by many is welcomed by the not so pleasant hay fever, allergies and other sinus related issues. These conditions are commonly caused by pollen; oak tree pollen and pine tree pollen are among the most common causes.

     At Wilderness Calls our back yard gardens are planted and sprouting. Soon we will be enjoying the great taste of the fresh vegetables provided. There is nothing like walking into your very own back yard garden and picking a variety of fresh vegetables. It's not necessary to plant a large garden with every vegetable available. Perhaps planting your favorite vegetable, or just a few vegetables to enjoy; such as green beans, okra, or maybe a tomato plant or two. As we always say at Wilderness Calls; "Support your local farmer by buying fresh produce"!

     We are tilling the soil for our spring grazing gardens or spring food plots. The soil looks good and rich ready to grow a lush food plot. We are sowing soybean seed for our spring food plots. As we disk in the seed we can almost see the wild hogs waiting for a feast! Perhaps they will leave some to grow for the other critters to enjoy!  While working in the fields we couldn't help but notice the natural breathtaking beauty of spring.

     I couldn't wait to finish so I could capture you some images of spring at Wilderness Calls. Upon our return to the lodge, I was walking in the vicinity snapping images of spring, when much to my surprise, came the Redneck Guru riding a four wheeler! I returned to the lodge and together we rode four wheelers and walked for miles enjoying nature and the beauty of spring. The gentle breeze and occasional gust of wind had the flowers dancing for the camera!

     The fluttering wings of the butterflies appeared to be the perfect model, however; this was not the case! The butterflies were elusive, camera shy, and refused to model for the camera. The Redneck Guru, said; "You look like a kid with a net chasing a dragon fly." I didn't know butterflies were so quick, but the sweet taste of nectar provided my second and third chance to capture the images of the butterfly. The happiness and indulgence was reflected from their pollen covered bodies caught in the images.

     The other nectar lovers proved equally as elusive; the bumble bee was shy and at one time, perhaps I came too close and they thought I was after their nectar. They swarmed me! I thought; I was being attacked, but without incident I captured some images of the beautiful bumble bee.

     I hope you enjoy our presentation of spring! 

James, Nature Photographer