When we find ourselves absolutely overwhelmed by the complexities, demands, and irrational expectations surrounding field work, it’s really nice to remember the simple things – and within them, find peace of mind, stability, and renewed strength.

Waking up early enough so as not to have to rush through a French-press filled with Blue Mountain coffee is a must.  It’s 10 minutes of tranquility, when one can sit with friends, contemplate the day’s tasks, and appreciate the scenery you’ve missed while rushing from one place to the next.

And what about those incredibly infrequent times that the birds come to you?  When you already happen to have the camera on, the tripod erected, and the settings adjusted for the current lighting conditions.  It’s such a simple request that so rarely comes to fruition, yet here’s a female Jamaican Spindalis (Spindalis nigricephala) that decided to fly in, hang out next to me, and eat some “NOOOO, SHE’S EATING OUR RASPBERRIES!!!”

Thankfully, once you scare away the pests with a gentle overhand ‘tossing’ of sharp rocks, you get back down to the simple things.  A sunset.  It’s been seen and photographed a billion times, but we still watch and enjoy every one of them.

And then it’s time to rest our weary legs.  It’s been an amazing trip.