For the beauty of the earth,
for the glory of the skies,
for the love which from our birth
over and around us lies.
Christ, our Lord, to you we raise
this, our hymn of grateful praise.
(Folliott S. Pierpoint - 1863)

Friday, right after an early lunch, Rebekah and I drove over to Scotland Neck to visit the remarkable Sylvan Heights Bird Park.

I had been for a visit previously, back in early February with a couple of the guys from the men’s group, but this was Rebekah’s first time.

There have been a lot changes in three months. Seasons, temperature, foliage, births and – most noticeably – the behavior of the birds. We were witness to a lot of nesting and the classic springtime interest in and enthusiasm for, how shall we put this… making whoopee!

Consequently – and I just looked through my photographs from February (you can see them here at “A Treasure and a Delight“) – today’s post showcases a completely unique collection of images.

Also, and I noticed this right away, the new lens I am using on my Nikon DSLR (the 18-400mm F/3.5-6.3 DI-II VC HLD) makes a world of difference.

It had been a hot week, but Friday afternoon was overcast, breezy, and a little cooler. The conditions made for a pleasant saunter around the extensive grounds and exhibits at Sylvan Heights.

Rebekah was delighted with the experience and we will definitely go again. There is so much to see, I believe we could go back tomorrow and enjoy it with new eyes.

And that is the key, I believe, new eyes not just open but primed for wonder.

The key to wonder is, more often than not, being primed for it. I have heard this idea expressed in a variety of ways, but it is generally true that regardless of our expectation, whether we expect a lot from an experience or a little, we tend to be right.

Henry Ford put it this way: “Whether you think you can, or think you can’t – you’re right.”

The eyes of faith and of belief and of positive expectation are also the eyes that experience more wonder. God has gifted us with a spectacular creation – but it is a gift we must actively receive, and then respond with gratitude.

For the wonder of each hour
of the day and of the night,
hill and vale and tree and flower,
sun and moon and stars of light...
Lord of all to thee we raise
This, our hymn of grateful praise.

In love, and with a grateful heart – DEREK

Enjoy the images – they are really cool!