This Hushed, Fleeting Moment

I love this time of year, which seems so short as almost to be measurable in minutes. Against the dark, still-bare forest, a few trees put forth a light, hazy flush of bloom, and you see the world as the Impressionists saw it in spring.

In the cool of early morning, trillium and spring beauties keep their petals wrapped closed. They will open later, in the warmth of the sunny day. Dutchman's breeches show more courage.

I'll go back in late afternoon to admire them and to gather toothwort for our dinner salad.