"Awaiting Spring"

Photo of a snow-covered swing waiting out the winter.

Photo by Rick Rouse. (Click photo for a larger view)
Those of us here in southwestern Virginia are slogging through the coldest and snowiest winter we have seen in quite some time. And while the bone-chilling temps and gorgeous snowfalls are actually quite beneficial for a number of reasons, few among us are without our hopes for an early spring despite the pessimistic February 2 forecast by the famous rodent known as Punxsutawney Phil.

Today's picture features the empty, snow-covered swing that awaited us as we pulled into the driveway at Aunt Eleanor's place yesterday afternoon. This old swing sees plenty of action during the warmer months, but right now it just seems to be biding its time until the warm breezes and delightful fragrances of spring make its services desirable to us humans once again.

Last month marked the 2nd anniversary of the passing of Aunt Eleanor's wonderful husband Jerry Dolinger, a kind and loving man who always seemed to have a smile on his face and a zest for life that few others will ever be able to match. Uncle Jerry is now with his beloved Lord, but some day, come spring, Aunt Eleanor and the rest of us who love and miss him so much will see him once again. But for now, like this old swing that holds so many precious memories, we'll simply just have to bide our time and wait until God decides it's time to grace us with the warm breezes and sweet fragrances of that most wonderful of all springs.

Visitor Comments...

Name: Cheria Rouse
Town: Abingdon, VA

This is my favorite place in all the world. I still go there every Sunday afternoon and spend time with Aunt Eleanor. I sure do miss Uncle Jerry, but I've got those great memories that I will have until I see him again.

Name: Charlie Taylor
Town: Marion, VA

I knew Jerry Dolinger well, and I can say without reservation that he was the kind of man you would want to have on your side whenever trouble came your way. His heart was as big as the mountain of a man that he was.

Name: Rhonda Hill
Town: Liverpool, England, UK

What a lovely photograph and uplifting story you have shared with us today Mr. Rouse. What an amazing man your Uncle Jerry must have been. I love your websites by the way.

Name: Phyllis Helton
Town: Bristol, VA

A beautiful, peaceful scene.

Name: Ron Trees
Town: Spokane, WA

Good Morning Rick,

I love your picture today!! It, along with your message, really spoke to my heart. We all have loved ones that we are longing to be with. When we all get to Heaven, what a glorious day that will be when we are all reunited! Your picture has brought back many happy memories and for that I say Thank You my friend. Excellent job on the exposure of this photo also! It is very well done.

Take care, Ron

Name: Glenn Brock
Town: Piscataway, NJ

Great photo today. I really love the composition, exposure and narrative - great job all around Rick!

Comment on today's picture | View previous "Pictures Of The Day" | Submit a photo
Why I publish the "Picture Of The Day"

TodaysPhoto.org Capturing the world...One image at a time.
Home \| Articles \| Digital photography primer \| Free content \| Store \| Advertise \| FAQs \| Privacy policy \| Contact