I have to follow up on what happened for us yesterday in search of the solar eclipse. We drove with our younger daughter and her fiance to a spot in Prince Edward County, several adjacent fields with mixed woods around the edges and alongside a large marsh. We figured the panoramic sweep would be perfect for viewing but we couldn't control the cloud cover. Because of the forecast we had already braced ourselves for disappointment but we were rewarded with breaks in the cloud and some good views of the eclipse as it unfolded.
It was a mild afternnoon here but as the darkness of the totality swept toward and over us we were suddenly chilled and the breeze picked up. Then the spring peeper frogs from the marsh began an almighty chorus which only lasted the precious few minutes until the sky lightened again. We were in lawn chairs but spontaneously jumped to our feet and did some hootin' and hollerin' as we did our 360 degree turns of admiration and wonder.
We saw on the news later how large crowds in various locations cheered during the total eclipse, and that must have been stirring. Our congregation was the frog choir and I wouldn't have traded that for anything, other than having more of the family with us.
I have written often enough about how vital it is for humans to nurture admiration and awe and wonder as aspects of our spiritual lives and praise for the Creator. It was present in abundance yesterday and I pray that the fleeting experience will be unforgettable.
The photos here were taken by Emily and Brad and Ruth and I think they're pretty good at capturing our outstanding time out, standing (and sitting) in our field.
Yes, it was a fascinating experience. Although I was at work, a large number of us sat outside our workplace from about 245 until after totality. So incredible for it to get so dark and cool suddenly. And those periodic breaks in the cloud cover were wonderful.
ReplyDeleteHad a somewhat good view from a Belleville neighbourhood. Better than those in Trenton from what I hear. The onset of cool air was almost spooky, the darkness unbelievable and the clouds broke right at totality and we could view the magnificent view with our own eyes for two minutes without glasses. The sounds of awe and wow’s from the neighbourhood broke the silence as everyone watched with wonder. Our amazing Creator, thank you!
ReplyDeleteThanks Roger and Dianne for sharing your experiences of the eclipse. I've been enjoying reading and hearing about what transpired for folk along the path of totality and their emotional response. It really was a unique experience and I'm glad to hear from you.
ReplyDeleteI was able to see it from my deck, and then out in the driveway, with neighbours- it was awesome - to think there was absolutely nothing we puny humans could do to prevent any of the movements in the heavens - far and near - and it was just beautiful ! "The heavens are telling the glory of God!"
ReplyDeleteI hope we can all savour the experience as we move on and our days become busy. Thanks Judy.
ReplyDeleteWe had people out from Toronto. We had clouds but a few breaks in the clouds. It will was pretty awesome. I don't know if our visitors were in as much 'wow' with the eclipse but the spring peepers were a huge hit.
ReplyDeleteThe other day we paddled into a maple swamp with a din of peepers and chorus frogs enveloping us. Always a Spring thrill. Thanks Laurie.
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