Yesterday afternoon Truett and I took a drive to Rum Island, just a few miles away from our house. Thanks to Columbia County ordinance #92-6 this spot has been cleaned up and is inviting to tourists and locals.
When I first got out of the car I commented to Truett, "There sure are a lot of no's on that sign."
I'm not certain when our county decided to protect the springs on Rum Island, but I am thankful that they saw fit to do so.
For many many years the local folk and out-of-towners partied at Rum Island, leaving behind their garbage, trash and often times, clothing strewn on the grounds. Unfortunately, even dirty diapers were just thrown and left for others to walk around.
We did not go to Rum Island often because of the riff-raff that hung out there and because of the filth. (Maybe the name of the island has influenced people's behavior.)
Well, yesterday no one was at Rum Island except Truett and me and a father and his daughter. Truett and I sat at a picnic table and listened to the sounds. . . or to nothing.
We noticed far more cypress roots than usual.
They always remind me of covenants of secret wworshipers.
If you stare at them long enough they take on the appearance of bodies with faces.
When we moved to a different location we were directly across from the island. I stared across the river hoping to see a water bird, a heron, an egret. I yearned for a living animal to photograph. But I saw none. So I patiently stood there and let the photograph come to me.
That's one thing I've been realizing about photography...patience. Since there were no birds or animals, then there must be something else. Then I began to see reflections that filled the camera lens. It doesn't work though if you are in a hurry.
But I did catch the tail feathers of a tiny bird before it flittered away.
I also caught a quick picture of a squirrel as we were leaving. The lighting wasn't right, but that was okay with me. An animal is an animal.
I'm so proud of Columbia County for recognizing Rum Island as a special spot on this planet and taking steps to preserve its beauty.
I showed this one yesterday...it's my favorite.
Very, very nice photos!
Posted by: Nancy | January 15, 2009 at 04:53 PM
What a beautiful place. I don't think I've ever been there. What river is Rum Island in?
Your photos are gorgeous, and I can really see the cyprus faces!
Posted by: tina | January 15, 2009 at 06:21 PM