After last year's Daytona 500 I vowed to concentate fully on nature photography and said I wouldn't be going back. I skipped last summer's races and, though I felt a touch of nostalgia listening to cars practice for the Rolex 24, I don't miss a thing.

As it turned out, back in December when I decided to lead a workshop at Fort DeSoto I didn't even realize that the Rolex was scheduled the same weekend. And the workshop was far more rewarding personally than any race could have been. I really enjoyed myself - not that I haven't before on other workshops but this was (by far) the largest group with which I'd worked.

Forster's Tern landing at Fort DeSoto Park

I'm looking forward to Alaska in just a few weeks and the chance to do it again. Before then I'll be judging bird photos at the Southeast Volusia Camera Club for their monthly competition, teaching more Photoshop for the Shores Camera Club, and, on the 28th, giving a presentation of Beautiful Nature, Beautiful Music at West Volusia Audubon. Just a few of the things I enjoy doing (just ask anyone what happens when I start talking about photography or birds).

While I'd much rather be out in the field with my camera today, I'll just sit here at my computer working on assorted projects - cozy, warm, and, most importantly, dry - instead of being at the speedway running for cover in a cold February rain. Nope, don't think I'll miss it one bit.