Since most fireworks shows have been cancelled thought you’d appreciate this bright and cheery substitute. Have a safe and happy Independence Day, y’all!
Showy Nature
Not a R.O.U.S.
Walsingham Park, Largo, Florida July 2020
This Hispid Cotton Rat (Sigmodon hispidus) was so intently feasting on greens that I was able to get a few good shots.
Measuring about 10 inches long (with tail) this is an average-sized member of the vast rodent family. My fellow Princess Bride enthusiasts will understand the title of this post. For those of you who haven’t seen (and memorized) the movie, I suggest you do so forthwith!
I’ll leave you with this PSA:
Eat your veggies. They’re good for you!
Sienna Scarab
It wasn’t hard to spot this Rhinoceros Beetle (Xyloryctes jamaicensis) as it measured about an inch long. Since it was deceased I had plenty of time to look it over. This was a female (as it lacked the namesake horn).
I really admire the glossy polish and the slightly iridescent sheen of the elytra (hard, wing cases).
A Reminder
Sun and Clouds, Treasure Island, Florida May 2020
I was recently reminded of the importance of “carpe diem, quam minimum credula postero” (seize the day, put very little trust in tomorrow). A couple weeks ago I helped a friend deal with the aftermath of his brother’s tragic death in a car accident and this morning I learned that a good friend passed away suddenly yesterday.
Since I am not guaranteed tomorrow, I will appreciate today…
Pretty in Pink
Sunset on the Lake, Walsingham Park, Largo, Florida June 2020
I was enjoying a light breeze at the park this evening when this bit of magic happened. What a lovely way to end the day!
Tender Terrapin
Turtle Snout, Walsingham Park, Largo, Florida June 2020
I recently spotted this distinctive snorkel-shaped snout poking out of duckweed on a freshwater pond. A quick internet search pointed me to a Florida Softshell Turtle (Apalone ferox). The species name derives from Greek and means tender, in reference to the leathery carapace.
I would’ve liked to have seen the rest of its body but it used the age-old strategy of freezing in place and outwaited me. Yeah, for those of you who know me I’m sure this comes as no surprise, patience is a virtue. It’s just not one of mine.
Off Target
Like Cupid aiming for my heart. Apparently, Cupid needs to head back to the archery range for some practice. This is gonna take awhile…
Bird for the Win!
This scene was quieter than I would have expected but the dancing and flashing of the Brown Thrasher (Toxostoma rufum) certainly caught my attention. The coiled up object near the center of the frame is a snake.
Based on the brief glimpse I caught of it quickly slithering away later, I am guessing the bird was harassing a Black Racer (Coluber constrictor priapus).
In case anyone is keeping score: Thrasher 1, Racer 0. And yes, I know, I need to work on my videography skills!
Through the Bridge Pier
Sunset at John’s Pass, Treasure Island, Florida June 2020
This opening in the bridge pier provided a nice frame for a striking sunset last night. The Saharan Air Layer is definitely delivering on its promise of spectacular sunsets!
Don’t Lie to Me
“Don’t lie to me, it makes you look bad,
don’t lie to me, it’s all that you have,
don’t lie to me, you’re never gonna live it down”
I know I shared this song not that long ago, but sadly, it is all too relevant to my life right now. Lying, to me, is one of the Unforgivables (borrowing a term from the Harry Potter universe).
Aside from the little white ones we all tell to smooth societal interactions, of course. I am a very forgiving person but once you’ve lied to me about anything important you’ve revealed the truth of your character. And that, I won’t overlook. I’ve learned the hard way, there’s just no room in my life for anyone like that.
On a positive note, it’s a damn good tune!
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