So recently I spent some time at the top of Mont Tremblant searching for shooting stars. Over the course of 4 days (or nights to be more precise) I managed to see 25, I think.
If you've ever seen a shooting star you'll know why I say "I think". The first one you see is usually an "I think", as in, I think I just saw one!After you've seen a couple in a row you are usually more sure of yourself.
This was a new shared experience. Yes, it was really interesting to share with amateur astronomers who brought their telescopes and laser pointers to aid the uninitiated.
Astronomy is one of those things that I have a hard time wrapping my head around. Maybe it's because the numbers are so large that it's difficult for me to relate it to anything; maybe it's the concept that something I can see right now may not even exist anymore, maybe it's both. But I can sit still for a period of time and gaze into the night sky and count up to at least 25 -- and even more if I get the chance to!
This shared experience also had a bit of a downside too. When you are stargazing alone, or with one or two close friends or family members, it's exciting to shout out "I saw one! Did you see it?". Totally different when you are watching with hundreds and there is a awe-inspired gasp from the crowd... and you missed it.
Watching shooting stars with your significant other is also really neat; and when you happen to catch the same star falling at the same time, well it's almost like reaching the summit together (if you catch my meaning). Note to self: next shooting star, remember to wish :)
As I promised myself yesterday, I would try and post daily, with a pic. The photo today is from the first evening at the top of Tremblant, just as the sun was going down.
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