2020, a year which we expected to be amazing has been quite the opposite. We heard about the outbreak of the Corona virus in China, but we never thought it would reach the United States. So when it did reach us, and state after state began to get shutdown, most of us didn’t expect it to hit this hard. People have lost their lives, businesses have been shutdown, and mother nature has basically forced us to self isolate.

So in this time of forced isolation, why not take this opportunity for personal growth and self reflection, so we can come out of this stronger and better human beings. I have to admit it hasn’t been easy for me to relax during this uncertain time, but I try everyday to take some time to observe nature so that I may get out of my head and learn from the other creatures we share this planet with.

I have always been a nature explorer but it wasn’t until my brilliant friend Kenzi recommended I use a technique she does called “plopping” in the backyard. So when you start feeling anxious and overwhelmed go outside and sit or lay on the ground and enjoy the elements around you. Naturally as I began to do this I started noticing little critters coming out to join me and eventually I started bringing my camera along so that I could photograph my new tiny friends.

I never thought of my backyard as a haven for wildlife until this shutdown went into effect. But seeing that nature is alive and thriving regardless of COVID 19, gives me peace of mind and hope for the future. I encourage you all to take some time to enjoy your backyards and especially the wildlife around you.

These are some images of the flora and fauna I spend time observing in my backyard. I hope they inspire you all to get outside and to get exploring your backyards too!