Ever had one of those days where everything feels a bit…fuzzy? You know, like when you wake up and your coffee hasn’t kicked in yet, and the world looks like a watercolor painting gone rogue? Well, that’s exactly the vibe I was channeling when I created this dreamy piece featuring one of my favorites: a Japanese maple tree.
Earlier today, I set out to visit the wonderful Hill Country Water Gardens and Nursery or, as I like to call it, my “Borrowed Garden.” The photo group was visiting and, since this is basically in my backyard, I decided to tag along for the ride. We spent a short time shooting before heading over for breakfast and, I must confess, I’m still a bit full from the French toast at 1431 Cafe.
It was a wonderful day, although a bit sunny and still somewhat windy. The wind was my assistant here, as you can see the leaves were blowing around a bit, making for a more painterly image. This year is shaping up to be less than spectacular for the wildflowers, and the water lilies are not out yet, but the borrowed garden did have a lot of plants. They had calla lilies and a smattering of Japanese maple trees, which I love. I have a thing for them and can’t resist sticking my camera lens into a Japanese maple tree, what can I say? I see a maple tree and in I go!
As for this image itself, it’s almost like a soft, pastel world where the leaves are whispering secrets to the wind, and everything is just a little bit blurred—like your vision after a long night of binge-watching your favorite TV show. This one is a gentle reminder that life doesn’t always have to be sharp and in focus. Sometimes, it’s the hazy moments that hold the most beauty.
I mean, let’s be real: who doesn’t love a good daydream? This one invites you to float away on a cloud of ethereal colors, where the boundaries between reality and imagination blur a bit. It’s like stepping into a dream where you can’t quite remember if you’re flying or just really, really enjoying that nap.
And speaking of naps, let’s talk about the colors. Those soft pastels? They’re like the gentle spring breeze, or the way your favorite sweater feels on a chilly day. They wrap around you, inviting you to take a moment, breathe, and just be. The Japanese maple trees really bring a touch of serenity to the garden, and I tried to capture that in this image.
But here’s the kicker: while this artwork may look all serene and peaceful, it’s also a little cheeky. It’s like that friend who shows up to brunch in a perfectly messy bun, looking effortlessly chic while you’re over there trying to tame your own hair into submission. It’s a reminder that life is messy, and that’s okay. Sometimes, you just don’t know what will blow your way, and it’s good to learn to go with the wind and just take it all in, embrace the disruption as it were.
So, the next time you find yourself caught in the whirlwind of life, take a moment to embrace the blur. Let the soft, dreamy colors wash over you and remind you that sometimes, it’s the imperfections that make life truly beautiful.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I think I need to go find that coffee. Or maybe just another nap.
Until next time…
