So Much More Than Flowers

Back on that Saturday hike through the forest, I found a whole lot more than flowers. There's a saying that most people know. "Can't see the forest for the trees", but I think I suffer from the opposite affliction. I can't see the trees for the forest. My eyes are constantly scanning the forest for little pops of color or form. 

From grapevines taking up a strangling position to fuzzy little seeds, it all grabs my attention. 

Even flies look better sitting on a bright green leaf in the under story of my favorite forest.

 Does anybody else remember popping these little seed pods as a kid, or was I just strange?

 This ecosystem is remarkable. After the winter we have just endured, the forest has risen from its slumber and burst into an all too brief explosion of life.