Pictures for Pam, Day 17: Oak Gall in the Morning Light

(best appreciated at full size!)

It was another gorgeous day and not so cold. Lately I've been freezing to death for the first half of my walk but today it was very nice. I spent a lot of time listening to my audio book today. Have you ever tried one? Or a podcast? They are a wonderful way to enjoy books and topical subjects when you don't have time or interest to physically read books or articles. No matter what your interest is, there is something for you. (By the way, if you've been curious about these things but need a little bit of guidance, please let me know. I'd be happy to fill you in and help you get set up!) Anyway, I've been listening to Dream Park by Larry Niven. Great concept: think Westworld meets Dungeons & Dragons. Very mediocre execution for the most part, parts are interesting, other bits are positively painful. I'm far enough into it that I'll finish it but it's not worth reading. I think I'll deserve a reward for finishing or perhaps what I really need is a noogie for continuing to slog through this dud!

Yesterday I was walking down the drive way and happened upon a round ball of sorts. An Oak Gall, to be precise. Also known as an Oak Apple because of their shape, these fascinating things are created by insects called gall wasps. Wasp larvae inject chemicals onto a stem or leaf, which causes the gall to form around them. As the larvae grows, it eats the gall tissue and eventually emerges as an adult gall wasp.

I remember when I first saw one of these. I wondered out loud, "What the heck is it?!" I picked it up and examined it closely, noticing how cool it looked. I find them fascinating and beautiful
photography subjects. Oak galls can be many different shades of tan or brown, but are often a splotchy blend which I love. Looking at this gall on the road, I couldn't help seeing the long shadow cast by the sun that had just risen enough to light up the road. "Ohhhhh, the light!!!" Soon I had my camera in hand, and here is my picture of what I saw!

Pam, I know you will love this cool thing. It's weird and wonderful, just like us! Well ok, I'm the weird one and you're the wonderful one! :D Anyway, I hope you like it, and I hope you had a nice Sunday!

Explored on 11/26/18, highest position, #5.