Butterflies, Chipmunks, Squirrels, Wildflowers and Magnolias

Hot Springs National Park Arlington Lawn Yellow Butterfly

I left a bit later this morning and the Lower Park at the Arlington Lawn was empty of people but is alive with Nature.  A beautiful Yellow Swallowtail Butterfly dances gracefully over the Fuchsia Azaleas.  Occasionally is dips into the bell of a bloom seeking out the sweet nectar in the center.  A lovely Squirrel is searching the lawn for a well deserved breakfast, I Love joy with which it relishes its prize.

I head up to the promenade on my way to the Peak Trail and spot a sweet Chipmunk filling it’s cheeks with tender seeds.  A black and blue Butterfly brushes past me and lands near the Hot Spring Cascade.  As I lean over for a closer look I see a lovely Chipmunk sitting on a Rock above the steam. Nature is glorious and her beauty is flowing all around me in the park this morning.

From the Promenade I connect to the Tufa Terrace and then the Peak Trail. The Forest embraces all who enter now, its canopy spreading out over the many trails.  As I hike up the Peak Trail I spot a lovely Chipmunk staring at me from the top of an old stump. The morning sun is shining gentle illuminating it from behind. When I reach the top of the Peak Trail I notice the Shooting Star Wildflowers are now tiny fluffy seed balls. Their beauty was fleeting and I am so happy I was able to see their short lived blossoms.

I connect with the Hot Springs Mountain Trail then hike over to the Upper Dogwood and Lower Dogwood Trails to reach the Floral Trail. Phlox appears in many beautiful colors all along the trails as I head to the park entrance.  A melodic Northern Mockingbird serenades me as I complete the last bend on the Floral Trail.

When I reach Arlington Lawn I look up and see the birth of a Magnolia Blossom in one of the large Trees that line both Fountain Street and Central Avenue with in the park.  It is a long awaited event as the Magnolia perfume will fill the Historic District.  The morning has been a blessing of life in the park.

Love to You ALL!
Lee