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Moon Set
As I've gotten older, the joy of "sleeping in" has become a thing
of the past, so I'm awake most days by 5:30 or so.
There are many benefits to being an early riser, not the least
of which is enjoying magnificent sunrises.
This morning, however, I witnessed another of Mother Nature's
spectacular shows --a moonset.
Whenever the moon is full, I have trouble sleeping anyway, so
often when I awaken in the middle of those nights, I'll go outside
just to bask in moonlight. It is so much softer and feels gentler
than sunlight, making everything appear more attractive, like the
filming techniques used for aging movie stars years ago.
I'd read that Mars would be making an appearance, so when I
awakened a little after five, I went out on the deck to see what I
could see. And there was the big old moon, hanging right in front of
me. Off to the left, and much higher in the sky, I saw one bright
star -- could that be Mars? It didn't look any different from a
normal star, so later today I'll have to check on the location of
Mars. (My astronomical skills obviously need work.)
I live on Hilton Head Island, a major destination for visitors
from around the world. This week begins a slowing down in tourist
visits, as children head back to school. The island settles into a
more normal phase, and residents breathe a sigh of relief at finding
a parking space closer to the grocery store.
Our villa is situated in a perfect location -- a short walk
takes me to a lovely little shopping area that holds a Post Office,
several shops and restaurants, and my hairdresser. A short bike ride
in the opposite direction takes me to work; on the way, I pass a few
lagoons and a tidal creek, where I always check for alligators or
various coastal birds. It's a slow, peaceful life that I love with a
surprisingly deep passion.
You see, I'm a city girl. I was born and raised in
Philadelphia. I loved the energy and yes, even the noise that comes
with city living. I never imagined that I would fall in love with
the natural beauty of a small barrier island in South Carolina, of
all places! But fall in love is exactly what I did -- hard. And
forever. I cannot imagine living anywhere else. My life here is
soothing, and feeds my creativity because to be inspired, all I need
do is walk out the door.
Our deck overlooks a lagoon, and the fountain in the middle made
soothing sounds as I sipped my coffee and watched the moon slipping
down the sky. Once they begin their descent, I'm always surprised by
how fast the sun or moon set. Before it disappeared behind the tall
live oaks across the lagoon, the moon played hide and seek behind
some clouds. The clouds were barely visible, blending into the sky
which was turning a sharper blue as it lightened into day. Wisps
would pass across the moon's face, making it a momentary spooky with
a Halloween look. But soon the moon would reappear, so full and
looking close enough to grasp in the palm of my hand.
All too soon, the clouds grew thicker, the moon descended below
the treetops, and my lunar encounter was at an end. I lingered over
my lukewarm coffee, reluctant to go inside and begin the mundane
routine with which we all prepare for work. But this day would be
different -- it began with wonderment.
Who could ask for a better beginning for the blessing of another
day in paradise?
~ Bobbi Hahn ~
Copyright © 2010
All Rights Reserved
Bobbi lives in that cozy villa beside a lagoon with her husband and
two elderly cats. She is a frequent contributor to Heartwarmers and
Petwarmers, and more of her work can be seen on her website:
http://www.bobbihahn.com
[ by: Bobbi Hahn
Copyright © 2010 (bobbi@bobbihahn.com) -- {used with permission} ]
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