I escaped to Hueston Woods State Park this morning in the hope of catching wood violets, redbud and dogwood all blooming at the same time. Redbud was in its glory, and there was a nice sprinkling of violets along the path I hiked. Too early for dogwood, I guess. But what I found blooming in abundance all over the forest floor were Dutchmans breeches, the spring wildflower that looks like pantaloons hanging on a line to dry... a gentle nudge from God, perhaps, that I should be home working on my own laundry instead of goofing off in the woods! I laughed, snapped a few more photos and came on home. Now both machines in the laundry room are busy and I am relaxing once more, sipping a fresh cup of coffee and reflecting on the glorious start to the day!

(Further research online makes me wonder if what I saw was actually Dutchmans Breeches or its very close relative Squirrel Corn. No hope for it - I will just have to play hookey again on Friday and check it out, to see if God wants me back in the laundry room or out feeding rodents! Either way it looks like I'm in for another wonderful day!)