rmuckey

<p>Scarlet Tanger in back yard tree. From the looks of all the green choke cherries it's going to be a very popular tree in a month or so.</p><div></div>

<p>My favorite "bug" shot - taken while enjoying my coffee in the morning sun across our creek. Taken from about 10yrds. and cropped in DPP</p><div></div>

<p> Bad proof reading - s/b do NOT that which is past interfere ...<br> One more point to consider as we age :what is the legacy you wish to leave behind,how do you wish to be remembered. During my 1st posting, I received news that an older gentleman that owned property upon which I hunted, hiked and gathered my firewood supply since my childhood passed last night. I had shared in my hunting and gardening successes and worked together in processing firewood and other projects for the past 15 years until forced to stop due to the mutual decline in our abilities. My regret - I didn't do so earlier and get to know him even better. After months in the hospital for leukemia treatments he still retained a pleasant demeanor and positive outlook - even after being taken off his meds and being told life expectancy was less than 2 weeks (he lasted 2 days). That is how I will remember Harvey along with the knowledge he shared, and our experiences together. Perhaps "surrounding" yourself with others of such positive attitudes - to quote lyrics from a song of my youth "don't let them bring you down" ...<br> Getting back to the OP - you stated "35 years employment in the education field". Did you enjoy sharing your knowledge and expertise? Throughout the ages, as elderly were unable to participate in "hunting/gathering or providing" they took on the role of passing knowledge onto the next generation.Can you not continue to mentor others( recent posting in "New Members" stated interest in expanding film interest)?<br> Bob</p>

<p>In a situation of declining health and abilities, I've contemplated getting rid of some of my hunting, fishing and gardening equipment as I can no longer use them and perhaps someone else will enjoy their use. As my ability to do or enjoy those activities declined I focused on photography that I enjoyed to some extent years ago. I've thought going back to a "point & shoot" so as to not have to lug extra lens around in pursuit of nature/landscape shots as my capabilities further decline. Perhaps a change in equipment or pursuits to spark the interest back up?<br> I plan on shooting in one form another for as long as I can - for it is a pursuit of finding beauty and joy in one's surroundings. Some days I only sit across our creek, with the camera at hand for what ever presents itself. If nothing else, I've gotten outside and enjoyed all that my senses have taken in. Perhaps a change of subject matter?<br> My yellow lab is my constant companion and seeing him roll around in the grass, stick his nose up to "read" the air currents, the pleasure he gets exploring new/old places inspires one to take it all in, to enjoy, make the most out of the moment. There are times I've had to force myself to get up and about to take care of his "needs" and have been taken in by the clear winter night sky so there are pluses and minuses in regards to being a dog or cat's "partner". But, please remember - every dog should have a human, not every human should have a dog. <br> In regards to "depression", yes it sounds as if you went thru alot - BUT YOU SURVIVED IT! Does that not bring a sense of accomplishment and joy? You went thru all the treatments, the un-certainty and fear - do let that which is in the past interfere with the enjoyment of LIFE now. One generally finds what they're looking for - look,pursue for that which brings you joy! <br> Re: "man hugs" - helpful no matter what the age, sometimes accompanied with a "swift kick in the ass"<br> Bob</p>

<p>Certainly knows how to enjoy a warm spring day - with a roll in the grass and wild flowers after chewing on a stick.</p><div></div>

<p>Here's a "recovery" - poor lighting in the shade and being in a hurry resulted in this hummingbird photo being under exposed -so turned it into silhouette.</p><div></div>

<p>First fawn made it's appearance last week in the field in front of our house - kind of early for upstate NY, usually mid June or so. "Mama" leaves the fawn in the field(safer than in the woods with the coyotes and bears) and comes back several times a day to nurse the fawn after making sure the coast is clear and then goes back into the nearby woods. </p> <div></div>