Saturday, September 05, 2009

Feeling Better

The entire first half of this year, and much of last, chemicals have been firing wrong in my brain. All things wonderful and beautiful were becoming more and more absent from my life because I couldn't find the energy or desire to pursue them. And even when I did, they did little for me.

Finally I wised up, got a mild prescription from my doctor, and began feeling better almost instantly. Now I am at the point were all things wonderful and beautiful are catching my eye and heart once again. It feels really good.

Here is what caught my eye yesterday:

First, a large and lovely Cat-faced Spider (Araneus gemmoides).

Do you see the kitty cat resemblance?


These are one of the most common, but unusual spiders encountered by people. They are representative of orb weaver spiders. Their webs are beautiful. Despite their size and appearance, they are harmless to humans, and actually quite beneficial as natural enemies to many garden insects. I hope to get another, better picture of it later.

Other fun things that caught my eye...



Peek-a-boo

I think my mind, and therefore my eyes, were focused on insects (though of course, spiders are not insects) because I had been reading about them all day, preparing for an evening program.

It's nice to be back.


8 comments:

Marlo said...

It's nice to have you back :)
I'm glad you're feeling better. Fun pics even though the one with your hand near the spider kinda gives me the heebie jeebies ;)

Jay said...

I love cat faced spiders. My mom had one that came to her front porch for quite a few summers. All the grandkids knew it was not to be disturbed.

Jenny said...

My favorite picture is the grasshopper. Glad you are feeling better. :)

Nicole said...

You have such an eye love the pics! And yes that spider does kinda resemble a cat. So cool!

luann said...

I know how it is to just not be feeling you. Glad you are feeling better! I hate spiders, but that is a pretty cool looking one, for being a spider.

Deejbrown said...

Would like to know more about how you wised up and what you did. You are a courageous spirit & I am delighted to see you back with your wise words & great photos!

Wendy said...

Thanks everyone.

Dj - I wised up to the fact that I was probably depressed and needed more than will power to get over it. Seems pretty obvious now, but depression is something I had never experienced before - down days, yes, but not depression like this. My Dr. put me on a mild dose of Celexa. It was all I needed to get my head clear.

Thanks for your kind words.

Harvey Schmidt said...

Great photos - I love the bee, but the spider is my fav :-)