The Environment Matters.

Willy Nilly Friday.
 

1. This artwork represents an Australian flag. Our hearts are with the people and animals of Australia who are dealing with devastating wildfires. 

(Seen at Outback Steakhouse.)

Whether you agree with the scientists who tell us that climate change has made the wildfires more widespread, you cannot claim that air pollution should continue at present levels. As reported by the BBC, around seven million die from air pollution every year. Research also shows that students do worse on exams on high-pollution days! Worse yet, several studies show that crime increases on days when pollution is worse.

I don't know how any caring person can say that we don't need to bring pollution down drastically.

2. Let's turn to plants and their beauty. We don't have flowers blooming outside right now but I paused at a display of flowers in a supermarket. How sweet they are!

Friday Bliss and Floral Friday.

3. Virginia State Parks had events on New Years Day including First Day Hikes and a photo contest. It was a nice day, quite warm for winter. I took some pictures at Shenandoah River State Park.

4. My selfie came out sun-struck, with rays streaming over may face. I ran the picture through a couple of filters in Photoshop and added a vignette. 

5. I have photographed the view from Cullers Overlook many times. It is worth paying the small fee to enter the park just to see this view.

6. The park visitor center was open and busy. They provide information, exhibits, and restrooms.

The small waterfall in the next picture is actually inside the visitors center.

7. This sign quotes Theodore Roosevelt:

"We have fallen heirs to the most glorious heritage a people ever received, and each one must do his part if we wish to show that the nation is worthy of its good fortune."