I leave you with spring

Apple Blossoms  -Horatio Alger

I sit in the shadow of apple-boughs,
In the fragrant orchard close,
And around me floats the scented air,
With its wave-like tidal flows.

I close my eyes in a dreamy bliss,
And call no king my peer;
For is not this the rare, sweet time,
The blossoming time of the year?

I lie on a couch of downy grass,
With delicate blossoms strewn,
And I feel the throb of Nature's heart
Responsive to my own.

Oh, the world is fair, and God is good,
That maketh life so dear;
For is not this the rare, sweet time,
The blossoming time of the year?

I can see, through the rifts of the apple-boughs,
The delicate blue of the sky,
And the changing clouds with their marvellous tints
That drift so lazily by.
And strange, sweet thoughts sing through my brain,
And Heaven, it seemeth near;
Oh, is it not a rare, sweet time,
The blossoming time of the year?

-Horatio Alger

I absolutely adore spring! Just when I thought it would never arrive, it appeared in a flash. Cold and rainy one day- sunshine, bees, and apple blossoms the next. What a special treat spring is. As I finish last minute packing before my flight early tomorrow morning, I can't help but take frequent breaks outside with my camera to soak it all in.

  Below are a few more class samples for my workshop. I'll see you in two weeks! I look forward to sharing my wonderful journey with you when I return. 


unfinished back cover and spine for demos:
unfinished front cover and spine:

 

Comments

[Bevlea]

photo's are awesome DJ.. looks like you all had a fantastic time.. what a very scenic place it is! looking forward to getting out with you and our camera's when you are here next year
:-)

[Renee Troy]

Your photography is now what I would aspire to if I knew how. Just beautiful captures...and your art ain't too shabby either ;o) Wish I could join your class in Italy.

[laurie]

Spectacular photos! Have a wonderful trip! Those are some lucky ladies waiting for your class!

[Carolyn]

Ah DJ, I have been away so long from the computer but had to check in on you. Your photos are absolutely stunning and ever improving. I miss seeing your blog, I'll try not to stay so long away again... With you I always find inspiration, encouragement and the sweet love of sharing the best of life. My love to you and your adventures.

--Carolyn (and Wanda/the sisters)

[Kathy Cooksey]

your photos are simply stunning!! I marvel at the clarity of the moment that you capture. Thanks for sharing.

[joanne thieme huffman]

Have a great trip. You're leaving us with great photos (my favorite is with the bee butt) and tantalizing samples.

[cindy o'leary]

The bee photos are absolutely amazing, just floating into the nectar like that. Wow! Can't wait to see the pics you get in Italy; wish I were going, but will have to live vicariously for now. xoxo