Autumn Asters, Honey Bee and Capitol Columns at US National Arboretum

Honeybee on purple aster: Copyright © Phyllis Wheeler, 2016

Happy floral Friday! Asters are one of the joys of autumn. I think this honey bee would agree.

Asters and field foliage: Copyright © Phyllis Wheeler, 2016

This week at the U.S. National Arboretum the purple autumn asters are in full bloom. 

Capitol columns with autumn color: Copyright © Phyllis Wheeler, 2016

The area by the capitol columns is a great place to view them.

Autumn aster field and foliage: Copyright © Phyllis Wheeler, 2016

The asters contrast nicely with the autumn foliage of nearby plants.

Thank you for visiting! May God bless you this autumn and always!

Related posts:
Autumn bonsai tree foliage: http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2015/10/autumn-bonsai-flowers-and-chrysanthemum.html
2013 Autumn bonsai foliage: http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/11/autumn-bonsai-exhibit-at-us-national.html
Fall foliage at USNA: http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/11/fall-foliage-at-us-national-arboretum.html

Nature: Day 15 of 30 Days of Thanksgiving

"The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands." Psalm 19:1 (NIV)

Today I'm focusing on being thankful for this beautiful world God has created. I love nature enjoy getting outside whenever possible. Even though today is an overcast, gray-skied day, I had a wonderful walk this morning. First of all, I'm very thankful to have recovered from a recent string of illnesses. While I still need to take it easy and rest more than usual for a while, it's a huge blessing to be able to walk for exercise again. 

Even in my busy suburban neighborhood there were many natural autumn joys to see. I saw a squirrel feasting on an acorn, birds flying, beautiful red, feathery Japanese maple leaves and some late blooming black eyed Susan flowers. 

I like to pray as I walk and getting outside helps me connect more fully with God. Although the skies were overcast, for just a few seconds there was a break in the clouds and the sun shone right on my face. It was like a kiss from the Lord. Beautifully touching and a moment well worth savoring and being thankful for.

What are you thankful for today? What natural beauty surrounds you? May God bless you and keep you, dear friend!