While on a road trip through central Texas in 2019, I took this photo of the reflection of trees in the Medina River. This was an example of not knowing what kind of image you took until you go back and review it later. When I looked at this image, I was struck by the emotion it evoked. The reflection of the trees in the water, the starkness of the almost leafless branches, and the cloudy sky all came together to create a very reflective, contemplative, sepia-toned scene. I have gone back to this calming image many times.

I have a blog friend who is a very talented photographer and poet. I asked him if he would pen his thoughts about this image for me to post with the picture. He gave me permission to post his words on my blog. Below are the words of Tyler Pederson, author of The Ancient Eavesdropper blog. I encourage you to follow him on his blog if you enjoy thoughtful poetry and amazing nature photography. He is quite accomplished!

Reflections

A procession
of towering
trees along
the river —
roots walking
on water —
their canopy
reflections
swimming
in the
deep end —
branches
outstretched
offering
life to one
and all.

Tyler Pederson
The Ancient Eavesdropper
2026

Thank you to my friend, Tyler Pederson, for taking the time to jot down your thoughts about my photo and for giving me permission to post it on the Quiet Wild blog. I truly appreciate it and love reading your poems and seeing the images you post. Keep on posting!

Until next time…