Wow, we had some beautiful photos. Thanks to everyone for entering.

Some comments:

ramseybuckeye - I'm absolutely drawn to this photo. Love how the subject seems so common place but the photo's composition makes it a very interesting photo. Really, really like it.

slowpez - Simply stunning and the color is magnificent.

rod_grant - This is a good representation of the theme and a reminder that nature finds its way.

StephenHampshire - Another example of the way that you manage to always catch the light.

atupdate - Saying this is cute doesn't do this photo justice. I could stare at this all day. Adorable.

SpecialK - Love the title and another photo that shows that nature will find its way.

charliezap - Well captured!

Dieterson - Love the saturated (but natural) colors and details of this simple subject.

simon_199 - Another photo with gorgeous color.

tessfully - Wow. Beautiful photo. I don't feel like I need to say anything other than that.

noelcmn - A very good representation of the theme.

Weevil - What a great insight into what looks like a great way to spend a few days.

K David - Another cute photo.

RollsUp - Oh my goodness. Lovely and adorable.

So... you did not make my job easy! I'm really torn because I like all of these photos...

It came down to three photos, by ramseybuckeye, noelcmn and RollsUp ... gosh.. .this is not easy...

But the photo I loved the most was taken by RollsUp. Congratulations!

[Rimfiredude]

Congratulations to the winner. Super Picture.

[ramseybuckeye]

Congratulations Rod, that's an outstanding photo! Thanks for a good challeng sealonsf, nice job in commenting on all of the photos and thanks for the nice words on my photo.

[noelcmn]

That's a terrific shot, and of a subject some of us can only dream of! Congrats Rollsup! A worthy winner. And I simply love your photos of life up north. And honored to be considered among the top 3. Thanks Seaonsf -excellent challenge that drew some beautiful images. And for the judging and comments. Over to you Rod.

[slowpez]

What a wonderful shot rollsup. Well deserved win. It was a real heart-warmer. Great job judging sealonsf. Congrats also to Noel and Tom for being in the top three.

[RollsUp]

Thank you sealonsf for commenting on all the submissions and choosing my photo as the winner. Congrats to ramseybuckeye and noelcmn. I'll think up a theme and post it as soon as I think up of one.
Thanks for all the kind words.

[tessfully]

B e a u t i f u l ! ! Love that image RollUp. Congrats on the win and to the runners up as well. Thank you sealonsf for the great comments and challenge.

[Hattifnatt]

Congratulations to the winner... just a great photo. Nice job everyone

[charliezap]

A very fine shot deserving of the win.--charliezap

[sealonsf]

Happy New Year everyone! RollsUp has been notified and says a new contest will be posted soon.

[RollsUp]

Thank you tessfully, Hattifnatt and charliezap!

Challenge #310 is up.

Happy New Year!

[Dieterson]

Congratulations to RollsUp. I love the expressions and the poses of mother and sprout. The reflection in the water makes the picture even better!

Thank you sealonsf for the comments and hosting the challenge.

Happy New Year :-)

[RollsUp]

Thank you, Dieterson.