Photos: May 31, 2014
A friend and I took our cameras to the Botanical Gardens. I just bought myself a monopod and wanted to see what it was like shooting with it and I have a new small camera - wanted to put it through its paces - shooting both automatic and manually. A learning day - but also a day of delight. The Botanical Garden's new slogan is Hurry Up and Slow Down - and slow down we did - stopping to admire the flora and fauna in the outdoor gardens.
Many varieties of irises were blooming. Their intricate shapes and patterns just had to be admired.
The peonies were just coming into their own.
Their bright interiors called to the insects to come and spread their pollen
Turtles were out sunning. Their stillness reminds us to stop and wait for treasures to come along.
New life abounds. Dozens of ducklings paddled around the pond, their little feet pumping at a good clip.
Bird songs serenaded our visit. This redwing blackbird stopped to sing out, puffing himself up to get maximum volume.
One less insect - one well-fed grackle.
Last year David Suzuki started a 30 X 30 challenge - for 30 days spend at least 30 minutes in nature.
From the web site: "Over the last decade, researchers have realized what most of us know intuitively: nature is good for us! It is well documented that being regularly immersed in a natural setting, like a park, field or forest, can lower blood pressure, anxiety and stress levels, and boost immunity. ‘Green time’ has also been shown to reduce feelings of anger and depression, while increasing energy, creativity and even generosity."
I can attest to the benefits - so Hurry up and Slow Down in nature - it does a world of good.
