Lapsed Landmarks

GATES

85′

(#18/100 North Carolina highpoints)

We have dutifully followed the directions from the PeakBaggers website to “a field adjacent to the Shell station and new storage facility just south of intersection with Tyler Road.”

Shell station

new storage facility

field…south of Tyler Road ✓

All of these basically flat coastal counties are a real challenge! Not because of long, steep hikes, but because there’s no easily distinguishable location to designate as “THE” highpoint.

So we do our best.

While Mary takes highpoint photos, Loren creates a list for eBird.

and speaking of taking photos…

Okay, okay, it’s not THAT bad. And technically, it’s not my CAMERA that broke, but my lens.

My great big zoom lens stopped…zooming.

So for Christmas, Loren graciously bought me a new zoom lens.
It’s new and improved! Programmable focus adjustments!!!

The new zoom takes photos like this one:

But let’s get a little closer, shall we?

We tried some tests in the backyard.

So, the zoom lens AND the camera are in upstate New York for professional calibration.

And I must learn to be content in every situation*, including taking photos with an iphone.

So for just a little a while, less birds, more scenery!

*Biblical reference is from Philippians 4:10-13, where Paul is speaking of much more serious difficulties than a faulty camera lens!

“I have learned to be content
whatever the circumstances….
I can do all things through the Lord
who gives me strength.”