For some time now, especially after Limo’s passing in September, I’ve had the feeling, when I’ve been out behind the house, that I’ve not been alone. I’ve been talking about that feeling, when being in the woods, with others who commented on my post of two Saturdays ago (Looking back), and maybe I’m more aware of things around me having done so, but I found one possible cause for the feeling here just the other day, um, staring me in the face. The reason I’ve not taken special not of it until now is probably that it’s not what most folks would consider “right-side-up.” It’s about fifteen feet above the ground, in the main trunk of our giant silver maple. I’ve rotated the image about 90° clockwise, toned down the harsh contrasts with Nik Software’s HDR program (there was bright sunlight), and framed it with a darkish vignette. And yes, I did notice that he’s winking at me, likely in satisfaction that he’s been watching me for years without my even knowing it.
krikitarts 
Well, Good Morning Mr. Maple! I hope you feel well today. And quit winkin’ at me! :P
I think he’s squinting a little less than usual this morning, as it’s not as cold as it’s been. It’s actually a balmy seventeen degrees (10 with wind chill). It dropped to -8 the other day.
Yikes! Glad we’re here just dealing with the rain. :P
I did mean to ask….probably because only lately I’ve been paying more attention to the blogs…what happened in September and who is Limo? I just lost my 18 year old cat which I think you know. It feels to me you were talking about a dog? Pets are so precious and it is SO hard to lose them.
Yes, Laura, you are so right, and thanks for asking. Limo was our last dog, and I still can’t believe he’s gone. Until the time of his passing, we had never been without a dog for more than 40 years. I guess I should have included a bit more of an explanation for those of you who are new to my website. Here’s a link to the tribute post I did about him:
https://krikitarts.wordpress.com/2013/09/23/the-leaving-of-limo/
Thank you for sharing that Gary. I just commented on your Leaving of Limo post, but I’m so sorry for your loss. :( I know how hard it is being without a pet. It’s kinda lonely and quiet.
I have always said….one is never alone in the woods!
Exactly so!
Great face Gary. Do I detect a series of woodland faces in the making?
As soon as I see another, you’ll be among the first to know!
Great! You’ve certainly inspired me to look a little closer as I walk through the forest.
How very wonderful. One only needs the sensitivity to see such things.
I wish I’d seen him sooner–but at least I’ve seen him now!
Indeed!
Haha.. this is great Gary.. so much fun! Made me think of 2 old postings of mine.. http://helensphotomania.wordpress.com/2012/09/21/friday-faces-12/ and the bottom photo in this series http://helensphotomania.wordpress.com/2012/03/22/just-a-white-tree/ .. gosh taken almost 2 years ago when I was still learning !
Thanks, Helen, and thanks for the links! My favorite, by far, is your miserable ent (Woodland Wonders) from Nov. 2, 2012. Well spotted!