Escaping the computer, escaping the rain – and watching the Hooded Mergansers.
Here it is the first day of March – the month when Spring starts inching through the door. I am writing this as I wait for the rain to let up a little so that I can enjoy my morning run. So here I am typing at the computer – again. It is one of the dilemmas of my life that the more I pursue some of the things I enjoy (writing and getting outside with my camera) – let alone trying to make a living – the more time I spend hovering over a keyboard and staring at a monitor.
looking picturesque in the rain
Don’t misunderstand me – I am not a Luddite. I certainly do benefit from computer technology – and most certainly from digital photography. Recent technology has given me much more freedom of expression and control over my writing and my photography. But instead of eagerly waiting to pick up my photos to see how they turned out, or using my favourite pen as I write outside under a tree – well – I spend too much time crouched over my computer. I know – I make my own choices. My pen sits mostly neglected -but I still spend a lot of time under my favourite tree.
foraging in a winter pond
Which brings me to Hooded Mergansers. I took the time to visit my favourite little pond yesterday. The ice was melting in the rain and there was some open water among the cat-tails. The resident geese honked a warning when they saw me – a sure sign that they are thinking of nesting again. There were also three Hooded Mergansers paddling around among the cat-tails. I am glad I took the time to head out to see who was on the pond. And I guess it was worth sitting here as I watch the rain, downloading the photos, typing this little blog and sharing the photos I took.
Enjoy the photos. It is still raining but I am going for my run now…
Hooded Merganser Male in the Rain
all photos and writing in this blog copyright Joanne Siderius
siderius blog 
I wonder too about spending so much time at the computer, but once warm weather comes, I’ll be spending more time outside – hiking, bird watching, gardening, etc. I’m also a writer and I use my blog posts (and that of fellow bloggers) to provide information for an e-book on nature I’m working on – which means, alas, more time at the computer. I’m thinking about getting an iPad or notebook so at least I can take outside.
Those small notebook/ipads are great. Good luck with your e-book – I look forward to reading it!