For Not Sleeping

Deer visited the street tonight, tripping the motion sensing yard lights at the house on the corner, so I could see them. I think they saw me, too, which is why they didn't come farther up the block. After they departed, and the lights went out, I stood in the darkness for a while and wondered how many nocturnal beasts (and what type) have watched me over the years that I've been in the habit of standing in the dark yard. Now and then I've seen eyes peering at me, but much of the time there is no light for those eyes to reflect. The creatures see me, but I don't see them. It would be interesting to spend a few nights out there wearing night vision goggles of some sort. The scene might be livelier than I know. On the other hand, if I knew what was out there, maybe I wouldn't want to go out anymore. Maybe it's better if I remain ignorant.

( Cut for Rant )

Boom!

When the thunderstorm began, I shut down all the electronics. I don't trust the grounding in this house. It was a bit surprising to have a thunderstorm this early in the year. Afternoon was all tumbling clouds and soft mist, and then there was a sudden flurry of hail and the sky lit up and the windows rattled with the first boom. It continued for an hour, with furious gusts of wind that sent the woodpeckers flying for cover on the lee side of the utility pole. The lawn was white with hailstones, and the rain dashed from the overflowing eave gutters to splash loudly on the walk. It was quite splendid. The clouds began to break up in the west just after sunset, and a wide swath of deep blue sky opened, revealing the thin rind of the waxing moon. Now the clear sky is filled with bright stars, and the cold air smells of wet grass and wood. Tomorrow might be sunny, but the clouds will be back by Wednesday. Maybe February will begin with another thunderstorm.