For this challenge Sofia is looking back to our first Lens-Artists Challenge: Wonder. Sofia explains her challenge like this: “We’re looking for the moments, places, people that we treasure, the little stories behind a shot that stuff our lives with meaning and joy.” You can visit Patti’s original challenge at Lens-Artists Photo Challenge: Wonder.

I believe the world in incomprehensible beautiful – an endless prospect of magic and wonder. – Ansel Adams

I am grateful I have been able to experience many of the wonders in America’s National Parks. Some are huge, some are tiny, some are living, some took thousands of years to create. They all brought me joy. Here are just a few wonders I fell in love with.

The ancient mountains of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the rugged peaks in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Ancient Giant Redwoods in Redwoods National Park and Palm Trees in Everglades National Park.

The amazing landscapes created by nature in Yosemite Nationanl Park and Bryce Canyon National Park.

Moose in Denali National Park and a Bugling Elk in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The serenity of a waterfall and an old homestead surrounded by tall trees wearing their autumn colors.

I can’t leave out the wonder of discovering small things like a butterfly on colorful wildflowers.

Last week Patti challenged us to Focus on the Subject. I enjoyed all of your beautiful responses. Thank you to everyone who joined the challenge..

Many thanks to Sofia for this week’s challenge. If you would like to join the challenge please be sure to tag your post with Lens-Artists and include a link back to her post Lens-Artists #402: Looking Back to Lens-Artists Challenge #1 – Wonder.

Be sure to check back on Saturday, June 20 at noon eastern time when John will be your host for the challenge.

If you don’t want to miss any of our challenges you may want to think about subscribing to the Lens-Artists team members websites: Tina, Patti, Ann-Christine, John, Sofia, Anne, Egidio, Ritva, Beth.

For information on how to join the Lens-Artists challenge please click here.

Every Day is a Gift