December 3, 2008
This afternoon we welcomed two fellow Winnebago Travelers to our campground. Phil and Carol S. settled in a short distance from us. They’ll be here for a couple of evenings and to top things off, the weather is looking nicer into the weekend. All we seem to be hearing on the weather front is that it’s cooler than normal in central Florida for this time of the year! Sure, we’re looking forward to the 70’s and we’re stuck in the 60’s and 50’s! I know, all of you sure “feel” for us down here!
We have to wear long pants and sweaters! Grrrrr!! At night we have to add a jacket to our outer wear! Actually, I’m not writing the above to complain, I’m angry because I’m one of those folks who can catch a cold easily when the temperature fluctuates so much… and I did! Of course, it wouldn’t have any thing to do with how busy we’ve been, enjoying Disney, biking, walking, shopping, eating, every thing outdoors and working! Come to think of it, it’s more likely that I caught the cold at work. Disney Quest has hot and cool attraction areas, some attractions that we oversee require a great deal of fast movement and there are lots of people to come in contact with!
As for astronomy, I’m trying to take advantage of getting out observing before the moon goes beyond its first quarter and Jupiter and Venus are still visible. Pretty soon the night sky will be void of any planets for a while; they will be entering a position in their orbits that doesn’t favor our position to view them. I guess we’ll just have to adjust and go back to looking at all those “faint fuzzies” and double stars the sky has to offer.
One of the “events” I really want to try here at the campground is what is referred to as, “Sidewalk Astronomy!” A number of years ago an amateur astronomer in California wanted to bring the night sky to people who rarely think about looking up at the night sky. Either their locale (city) or daily routine fails to offer them the opportunity to enjoy some spectacular (and free) visual treats the night sky has to offer. He would pack up his telescope, and head for any busy street with lots of people walking by. After setting it up, he would then, simply invite them to look through his telescope at the most common, bright celestial objects that were visible in the sky between all the city lights and buildings. People were awestruck! Many had never looked at the moon through a telescope let alone see a planet’s detail with their own eyes.
Now I have a mission!
Till next time!
