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Field Notes:
There is something joyous in watching Squirrels implement their industrious activities.  They are creatures of action collecting nuts, flying through the Trees, mating and raising babies.  I have seen them working alone to survive, however I have also witnessed wounded Squirrels working together to gather the next meal. They have thrown nuts at me to get my attention, waved at me after being away to heal from wounds and they have trusted me to photograph their young.  Anyone who knows me understands I strive to always be a person of action not just words.  It is why I Love Squirrels they are creatures of action.

Cardinals are everywhere in the lower areas of Hot Springs Mountain, I am wondering if this is because of the amazing parenting skills of the males. (See A Tribute to Fatherhood: Male Cardinals) Males appear to out number females by about 5 to 1.  It could be their bright red appearance only makes their presence more noticeable.  I will have to investigate further as winter approaches.

It is nearing the end of the Autumn Leaf color display and I am savoring every colorful change.  As the sun gentle falls in the late afternoon it gently illuminates the glorious change to each individual leaf.  It is in the details I see the miracle of this Eden that is my front, back and side yards.

Thank You for the friendship and taking time to share in my adventures.
Love to You ALL,
Lee

PS:I am trying to tackle the intricacies of a macro lens.  I have discovered low light is not helpful and although I hate using a flash outdoors I think I will have to occasional necessity.  Another note to self, macro lenses are highly sensitive to motion; learn not to breathe, lower heart rate or always be sure to carry a tripod. Two cameras, 3 lenses, cleaning tools, rain cover, camera bag, tripod and manfroto (tripod back carrier). Oh and a bottle of protein drink.  I am fully rigged to be hands free and even fully packed I can move at a fairly good clip. I just the wildlife is giggling at me.  In an effort to protect my 400mm lens I am using a clear filter, I am still not convinced it does not cause a certain amount of distortion.   This is part where I tell myself photography is an art form not a Xerox machine.  Appreciate any helpful information concerning macro use and lens filters.