2012, Day 139 - Opiate

It surprises me how many poppies I see in the Pacific NW.  Being from California where the poppy is the state flower I just always assumed that they preferred warmer and drier climates but they certainly seem to flourish in Oregon.  It makes me happy to see them because while I consider Oregon to be home they remind me of my childhood.

I was fortunate to grow up in a small town and, upon reflection, have always thought of my childhood as something akin to Calvin and Hobbes.  My best friend wasn't a stuffed tiger but in the summers it was safe to run out the door and come home only for food or when it got too dark out.  We built forts, caught frogs in the creek, hatched diabolical plans, and just plain enjoyed our childhood.  It saddens me that the freedom I had is so rare for kids today.  The world just doesn't seem like the same sleepy place it used to be.

Canon 1D Mark IV, Canon 70-200/f2.8L IS Mark II
200mm, f5.6, 1/60 sec @ 250 ISO