Have you ever done something even though you knew it wasn't in your best interest? Be honest. Of course you have! My latest fling with destiny was on Table Mountain in Oroville, California, and of course it was a photography opportunity that drew me away from home as I was recovering from the flu. To be precise, my undoing was at the North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve.
I have been fortunate to find someone who shares my passion for stopping to shoot photos. She drove while I relaxed. The drive was about an hour and a half each way. As we got out of the car, I realized that I felt a little weak, but dismissed it to sitting too long. Once our ranger led hike began, I half listened to the lecture on the wildflowers and wildlife and started taking pictures. Don't ask me the names of all the wildflowers. I just admired their beauty.
It was good that I put my camera into action, because when the other hikers returned, it was too crowded to get the great pictures on the mountain top.
About a mile or a mile and a half into the hike, my weak feeling turned into exhaustion, and I decided to turn back while I could still make it back! My friend tossed me her car keys, I turned around. It was easy to find my way to the parking lot--the old oak tree stood tall as a landmark.
I was shooting photos all along, but when I was on my own, taking my time, I was able to see things I hadn't noticed before. Armed with water and trail mix, I slowly made my way back. I took time to enjoy and admire the beauty of the wildflowers, volcanic rock and grasses painting a picture for me and my camera. It was beautiful. It's a shame the wildflowers bloom for such a short time.
A great photo opportunity came when, as I was sitting and munching some trail mix, I saw a couple playing with their dogs in the field. I kept watching them, and when they started walking my camera was ready. The image I shot is in the slide show.
While I was capturing landscapes and close ups of flowers, the rest of the group was able to shoot frogs, snakes, etc. I may have missed some wonderful photo opportunities, but then I had others.
By the time I returned to the car, my body was in total rebellion. I just sat back in the seat and thought about what lessons I learned on Table Mountain. In addition to the volcanic rock creating an uneven walking surface, we dodged cow pies. Bring the walking stick just in case I need it. Get in better physical condition. The flu put me down for two weeks and another two weeks for recovery. I had time to think it through.
It was another hour before my friend returned. By then, I had recovered. Then there was lunch and stopping off in Cherokee to take some pictures. This was a treat: an old general store, rusting train car, rusted farm equipment and the remains of an old brick building.
While hiking Table Mountain was not in my best interests, I did get some great photos and had fun. Things usually work out that way.
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