Some of the things I have enjoyed the most about staying on the island of Cayo Costa for the last month is the time to explore, learn, and create.
I had fun with my little camera. It fits in my pocket and it is not too expensive so I don't worry about taking it on the bicycle or kayak. Photography slows my pace so that I notice more about the world around me. Even if I don't know what something is, I may later look it up in a guidebook. If I do know what the subject is, I can look at it from different angles to study its form, texture, color, reflection, and how it all changes with the ambient light.
Can you figure out what I captured in the photo above?
I found this stingray washed up on the beach. There was still a gleam in its eye, probably a recent death.
This sea horse washed up too. It was still moving a little, but could not swim upright as it should. Isn't it an unusual form? Look at its tubular snout and prehensile tail. I used my hand as a scale and released the sea horse after taking this photo (another advantage of a tiny camera is that you can shoot with one hand).
One of the best things about Cayo Costa is the ability to move through nine different natural communities within a days walk. These prickly pear cacti are at home 300 feet from the Gulf shore.
I do have trouble capturing wildlife and birds with the small lens on my camera. I did get lucky one day (see the photo below). Look at the teeth on this strange tropical bird.
Not really. It's just a crab's claw. I don't mean " just". It's awesome what nature has designed.
One thing I didn't enjoy so much was sitting with the computer trying to install photos on this blog. You can see me at the "desk" behind the ranger station. The outdoor office was a breath of fresh air...but the slooooow connection really put me on island time, warping the logic of even attempting to connect with technology.
It has been a fast month playing at Cayo Costa. It's time to go. So long Cayo Costa! Maybe I'll come back and play, real slow, again next year.
Getting Cheryl Out There
About Me
- Water's Edge
- I spent 25 years as a respiratory therapist and at age 50 switched careers in order to spend more time outdoors and renew a dwindling spirit. Reviving my interest in the environment and my college degree in biology, I started and have operated a watergardening business since 2000 and became a certified interpretive guide with the Metroparks of the Toledo Area leading nature walks, backpacking trips for women, and sustainability projects. I have 2 children, Devin (age 25) and Livia (age 30) who were homeschooled until junior high. My husband, Dan, has been my adventure inspiration, both in travel and raising children.