Green

 

Sometimes, especially after a long, cold, snowy winter, it is exhilarating to see simple green leaves. The bright colors of flowers are refreshing and exciting, but the green of grass and leaves soothes the soul. Green is my favorite color. It goes with everything! I wandered the yard last night just before seven because I was sleepy and tired and wanted to wake up my mind for a few more tasks that needed completion. A walk always recharges me, even though my pace is slow and my path meanders here and there.

 

I have to admit that although I’m easing into it and do not have a headache, the ongoing withdrawal from caffeine finds me a bit more fatigued than usual. A transitional phase, I’m sure, and a feeling that I will overcome. I’m weaning myself from caffeine because of recent reports that it may cause spikes in blood pressure. I’m monitoring mine for any changes. I’m hoping to lower it by a few points before my doctor has a stroke over my usual numbers! Also talked with one of my aunts and her numbers are dangerously elevated, so I know I have the whole genetic component working against me. I don’t think there are many people in our family who are over forty and do not have blood pressure problems.

 

I’m trying not to be annoyed by the wind, but it is a struggle. When we lived in the high desert of California the wind blew almost daily at around 4pm. Most people became accustomed to it and just didn’t leave things in the yard. I always wore a scarf in the afternoons. We planned activities to avoid the “windy time”. However, one of our neighbors, who had moved up from the city, said she had to move on to somewhere else “before the wind drives me insane”. I understand that. It seems to fight against everything I wish to do, and at 40mph it usually wins! However, I managed a few photos yesterday by waiting until late when the wind was almost gone. Of course by then the light was nearly gone as well.

 

I almost hate to mention how much I am enjoying this week of school for fear of jinxing my students’ great accomplishments. Hearing them read so well is music to my ears! And their behavior, though heavily influenced by spring fever, has not been so bad either. We are studying insects this week and have had some interesting discussions. Children are fascinated by bugs and have some amusing stories about their personal encounters and feelings. I look forward to today’s conversations about “helpful” vs. “harmful” insects in the garden.

 

Red vs. White- Just a note that I don’t know which is more difficult to photograph- red flowers or white ones. Both give me fits, especially if the center isn’t a contrasting color. I’m trying different lighting, shooting at a different time of day, etc. My technical expertise is quite limited, so I have to experiment to find my way!! I want to thank my friend Shireen for her suggestions- I think I’m getting better results lately. Still waiting for that shot that “takes my breath away”! I love red!

I hope you have an awe-inspiring day!

Comments

[Megan]

I vote white.

And I wonder how much your blood pressure would lessen if you weren't a kindergarten teacher. Joke. : )