I love the pink in the park.

Sitting in the park on a crisp spring afternoon is akin to being cradled in nature's embrace, where the gentle whispers of the breeze weave through the branches of blossoming trees orchestrating a symphony of tranquility.

As I settle onto the weathered wooden bench, I am immediately enveloped by the vibrant palette of greens adorning the landscape, each leaf a testament to the renewal of life that spring heralds. The sun, in its benevolence, casts its warm rays upon the earth, coaxing forth a kaleidoscope of colors from the surrounding flora, while the azure sky stretches out above like an endless canvas, punctuated only by the occasional cotton-white cloud drifting lazily by. The air is alive with the melodious chirping of birds, their songs intermingling with the gentle rustle of leaves to create a symphony of natural harmonies that permeate the very essence of the park.

As I close my eyes and tilt my face toward the sun, I feel the stresses of everyday life melting away, replaced by a profound sense of peace and contentment. The scent of fresh grass and blooming flowers fills the air, carrying with it the promise of new beginnings and boundless possibilities. Around me, the park is alive with activity, as families picnic on the lush green lawns, children chase one another through the playground, and couples stroll hand in hand along the winding pathways. Yet, amidst the bustle of life, there exists a quiet sanctuary within the heart of the park, where time seems to stand still, and the world fades away into a distant murmur.

I open my eyes once more, taking in the sight of the majestic trees that tower above me, their branches swaying gently in the breeze like dancers in a grand ballet. Each tree is a testament to the passage of time, its gnarled trunk bearing the scars of seasons past, while its verdant canopy reaches eagerly toward the heavens, as if in search of some greater truth hidden amongst the stars. I find myself drawn to a particularly magnificent oak tree, its branches outstretched like the arms of an old friend, beckoning me to seek solace beneath its leafy embrace. I rise from the bench and make my way toward the tree, feeling the soft grass beneath my feet and the earthy scent of the forest floor rising up to meet me.

As I settle beneath the oak's sprawling branches, I lean back against its sturdy trunk and close my eyes once more, allowing myself to become lost in the rhythm of nature's song. Time seems to slow to a crawl, and for a moment, I am simply content to exist, basking in the beauty of the world around me. In this moment of quiet reflection, I am reminded of the simple joys that life has to offer – the feel of sunshine on my face, the sound of birdsong in the air, and the sight of trees swaying in the breeze. And as I sit in the park, surrounded by the wonders of nature, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to be alive in this moment, to bear witness to the beauty of springtime trees in all their glory.

As I step into the woods, a sense of wonder envelops me. The towering trees reach for the sky, their ancient branches whispering secrets of centuries past. Each step feels like a journey through time, as I weave through the labyrinth of nature's grandeur.

Old growth forests are more than just breathtaking landscapes; they are vital ecosystems teeming with life. These towering giants provide homes for countless species, from tiny insects to majestic birds of prey. The rich biodiversity nurtured within their midst is a testament to the intricate web of life that thrives in harmony.

But their importance goes beyond mere habitat. Old growth forests act as guardians of the environment, playing a crucial role in regulating climate and maintaining ecological balance. Massive trees act as carbon sinks, absorbing and storing carbon dioxide, thus mitigating the impacts of climate change.

As I wander deeper into the heart of the forest, I am reminded of the urgency to protect these ancient guardians. Their preservation is not just for our enjoyment but for the well-being of the planet itself. In their silent majesty lies the key to a sustainable future, where nature thrives and humanity coexists in harmony with the natural world.

This is unrelated to my project, but I just wanted to share with the older crowd that I am writing/drawing a pulp graphic novel, just for funsies. I'm currently researching where to put the pages up, but as of right now, it's just... being drawn and planned out.

Side note thing: More art is coming.

I just have the exciting news that I accepted a volunteer opportunity for the Maine Conservation Corps and I'm going to be heading there FAIRLY SOON.

I honestly am very nervous, but I really can't wait.

We feast on mushrooms when we are alive

But they say, when we die...

Mushrooms feast on us.

I’ve had this blog ever since Tumblr decided to give up the NSFW art thing. I haven’t really bothered to post here because I have had not much to talk about. However, my life definitely has been eventful. However, dear reader, I know you aren’t here for the boring stuff. Let me introduce myself real quick to get the vibe of my blog down packed.

My Name is Gladiolus.

I am a 29-year-old wildlife conservation student in training whose passion for preserving nature is as vibrant as the ecosystems I study. My journey extends beyond the bounds of scientific exploration. I am a transmasculine nonbinary person of color, bringing a unique voice to conservation efforts and a dedicated illustrator.

I am driven by a deep reverence for the natural world. Steve Irwin was a major influence in my childhood, reminding me that we must love ALL animals and RESPECT nature to the fullest extent, not just the parts of it that are aesthetically pleasing. My fascination with wildlife began early in life, with the aforementioned Steve Irwin, but it all started with my hyperfixation on lions. Over the years, my passion evolved into a commitment to safeguarding fragile ecosystems and the diverse species that call them home.

As a wildlife conservation student, I immerse myself in the complexities of ecological systems, seeking to understand the interconnected web of life and humanity’s role in its preservation. Yet, his journey is not confined to textbooks and fieldwork.

Navigating the intersection of gender identity and conservation, I bring a unique perspective to the table, challenging traditional narratives and advocating for inclusivity within the environmental movement. My journey is a testament to the power of diversity in shaping conservation efforts and fostering empathy for all living beings.

But my contributions extend beyond academia; I am also a talented illustrator who harnesses the transformative power of art for therapeutic purposes. Inspired by my own experiences and struggles with identity, I use art to create a safe space for self-expression and healing, both for myself and others.

Through my illustrations, I invite viewers on a journey of self-discovery and reflection, weaving together elements of nature, identity, and resilience. My art serves as a medium for connection, sparking conversations and fostering empathy across diverse communities.

As I continue my training in wildlife conservation, I remain steadfast in my commitment to protecting the natural world and promoting inclusivity within the environmental movement. With my unique blend of passion, expertise, and artistic vision, I am not just a student; I am a catalyst for change, inspiring others to embrace the beauty of diversity and the power of conservation.