About Today.

The date September 11 has a strong meaning for most of us over the age of thirty. We remember the collapse of the World Trade Center skyscrapers and the shock of realizing the USA was under attack. And we remember where we were when we found out.

Frank and I were in the car on our way to Basye to meet a home inspector when we heard it on the radio. We were purchasing a chalet in the mountains as a vacation home. A few years later it became our full-time home for a while, until we sold it and moved into a larger house. 

I remember feeling grateful that my younger daughter was traveling in Africa because normally she would have been working in New York City. My family was safe, but the shocks of 911 just kept coming that day and then over the days following. Even years later, first responders are suffering from long-term health effects from the heroic work they did in the aftermath. 

The first two pictures are of the chalet. It turned out to be a lovely place to live, although eventually we wanted fewer stairs, more space, and an easier access road. As we get older, we need to be closer to health care too.

The black and white picture is a selfie from this morning. I was feeling sad and worried because it was not only the anniversary of the 911 attacks, it is also six months into a pandemic that keeps us from socializing freely. So many things that I enjoy are risky now, including little things that used to cheer me up, like eating in a restaurant or going to the library. 

This afternoon I shook off my malaise enough to go out and take a few pictures and go to the store. Here we see the post office in Toms Brook. The flag is at half mast to honor the victims of 911. 

Not far from there I paused to photograph some yellow flowers, as well as the farm scene in the next picture. The sky was fairly clear by that time, with a single cloud over the Massanutten Range.

Floral Passions / Skywatch

Weekend Reflection.

The last picture is a combination shadow and reflection at Tumbling Run. By the time I took this sort-of selfie, I was feeling better from being outdoors in the sunshine. 

We are fortunate here to have clear skies, unlike in California and Oregon where wild fires are burning countless acres. I worry about the people and animals there. I worry about the damage that humans have done to the environment and how much more damage will result from the fire and smoke. 

Oh dear, I may slip back into a sad mood. Okay, forget I mentioned the bad stuff. I hope you have a safe and pleasant weekend.