Sunflowers

 I have grown up in rural Manitoba and I can't recall a summer without seeing fields of sunflowers.
I used to think that this was just another crop and didn't really pay much attention to how these flowers looked,after all,the goal was for the seeds to ripen and then send the combines in to harvest the crop.
That is still the goal today,but my priorities have changed.Since taking up photography,I see beauty in almost every place.

A field of sunflowers in full bloom is gorgeous from almost any angle.

The heads are held up high and those bright yellow petals draw attention to the seeds forming in the centre part.

Let's just take a closer look at the heart of a sunflower. Each tiny floret will have a seed at it's base.If the rains come at the right time and the bees get in there to pollinate these flowers than later in fall a harvest of sunflower seeds will be available.

Did I mention that each flower needs to be pollinated? Here one bee is busy doing that while also collecting pollen and nectar to take back to the hive. I find it fascinating how God has created all of nature to work in harmony.

One last look at this field of gold.It won't be long now and those heads will be bowing under the weight of the seeds in it.It is about at that same time that some of the birds may find an easy source of food. I am fairly certain that there will be seeds enough for the birds to enjoy some and yet for the farmers to get a good crop.

I found this quote and thought it was suitable for today:
Thank You,Lord,for the richness of honey!
Though the myriad wildflowers,or sunflowers,that supplied the nectar have passed from the earth,
their sweetness lives on.