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A Slower Life

Just got back from a photography seminar by Ian Plant (link here). For the last three years, Linda and I have been going to the Peoria Camera Club featured photography speakers.  The first two had speakers we were very familiar with, however, Ian was new to us and we did not know what to expect.  There was some hesitation this year due to the fact that the $75/person fee is a pretty steep if you are unsure if you are going to get any takeaways for the investment.  We checked out his site and his work was very interesting – he also ranged from landscape to wildlife which covered both our interests.  Being that it was our little thing we do together, we took a chance.  We definitely didn’t expect the 9+ inches of snow accumulation that started late last night and has continued throughout the day.  This kept a lot of planned attendees home – living in the country we are accustomed to the slippery driving conditions and made it there without incident (can’t say the same for all the trucks and cars we passed in the ditches on our way there).  Turned out we had a great time and have new ideas to try out next time we are in the field.  Also had a chance to mingle with some of the Peoria Camera Club members which was fun as well.

Having been inspired by Ian today, thought I’d go ahead and put out another post.

Texas Tortoise found at Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge in January 2017

Nope, that isn’t a bird for a change!  Based on the multitude of hate mail sacks that hit our front door, it was apparent that you wanted a break from the birds.  After a quick look through my queue, I found this prehistoric throwback and thought it would fit the bill.  Granted, I did come upon this slow moving creature in the midst of birding Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge on our Texas birding trip back in January 2017.  This would have been our first visit to the Sticky Mud Lagoon (in case you were wondering what Atascosa means), quickly making its way into my top 10 birding locations.  Just be sure and keep a close eye on the road into that place or plan a visit to your favorite tire alignment technician.  Actually, let’s call it a giant pothole that leads into the park that happens to have some high gravel parts in it.

Texas Tortoise found at Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge in January 2017

Hit the jump to read more about this featured creature!

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