[blockquote source=”Haruki Murakami”]Not just beautiful, though–the stars are like the trees in the forest, alive and breathing. And they’re watching me.[/blockquote]

A dear friend sent these photos to me, of a young Russian mother who shared the gift of limitless acres to explore – with her most beautiful explorer little ones.

It reminded me of my Father, who gave up so much to give the world to me.

You know, I don’t believe I have ever shared with you, but when I was born my parents sold all that they had, so that we may leave the city and live a life in these woods. I think they must have sensed the spirit in me, even at such a young and tender age – fearless explorer, and lover of woods…and not ever to be bound by foolish city ‘limits.’

And, at just 2-years-old, I remember the excitement of being hurried to the back of the car – my little body held firmly by the towering boxes on either side. Our house was finally finished, you see – and it was high time for our new life.

I have to say, that this was the longest ride – leaving one life, for the promise of another.

And when we arrived, the land was still a mess of downed trees and unfinished business – but the house stood proudly, tucked away in this perfectly storybook setting…and awaiting so patiently for our arrival.

I know it must sound silly, but it almost seemed to me that the land was happy that we were finally here – eager to help the tiniest of hearts, open wide enough to embrace the wonders of adventure.

I grew up in those woods, hours turning into days, and folding onto years. And, even to this day when I travel back home – I can still feel the trees welcome there.

nd still to this day, when I travel back to check on things – I still feel the trees welcome there.

And, by the stone wall my father built…

And, amongst the garden clippings shared through the years and carefully tended by my mother’s delicate hands…

And, over there…by my ‘sitting rock’ – a large bolder that made its way through by way of a great glaciers ‘tail.’

I used to write there, on that great big rock by the creek. To this day, I wonder if my words may have first found me here…a precious gift by the very woods that helped to raise me.

So, when my friend sent these most beautiful images, I couldn’t help but to think of this place I call ‘home’…and the joy of a child’s heart, filled with wonder.

And, isn’t that the way all days should be? When the love of a tree may help shake loose all expectation…

These most beautiful photographs are by photographer Elena Shumilova – who through her images, help us to understand the true meaning of one mother’s love. The images are of her children, who live the same enchanting life my parents once gave to me.
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Namaste, my most beautiful friends…and, yay all the children of this earth know the gift these woods may bring.