Except the moon isn't actually blue unless you live near an active volcano or one of the big fires out west. But interestingly a blue reflection is seen here caused by internal camera lens reflection at slow shutter speed.
So what does "Once in a blue moon" mean?
There is more than one view on the subject. Blue Moon is often used to denote a second full moon in one calendar month. This is the 21st of August so that's not quite possible. The older definition is that it is the third full moon in a season with a rare four full moons. So this summer we have four full moons.
The question of why the scientists who decide these things chose the more common third moon instead of the more obvious choice of the rarer fourth moon remains unanswered.
One more very important question. Which Blue Moon was in Tony Soprano's eyes?
Either way it's fascinating to spend some time looking at the moon on a nice evening.
That's interesting, I didn't know what a blue moon was. I think I've heard the 2 moons in one month thing before. What a cool blue reflection!
ReplyDeleteThat is the more common view and I think more interesting.
DeleteI didn't know about a Blue Moon, but I do know that I love the garden glowing in moonlight. That is really cool! The cactus look like people.
ReplyDeleteThat might be the oak trees in the photos, but they do look like people don't they?
DeleteThings that make go hmmmmm. Didn't know there was really such a thing. Wasn't aware of the formal designation process.
ReplyDeleteThey do think up some interesting things to ponder.
DeleteThere was a similar description in our local newspaper today, and last night we dined outside and watched that moon rise over the cedar trees. What a way to entertain dinner guests.
ReplyDeleteThat does sound beautiful. Outdoor dining is still a few weeks away here.
DeleteBlue moon, you saw me standing alone..... :)
ReplyDeleteThere are so many songs out there, some romantic and some not so much.
DeleteHow good to see a moon, blue or otherwise, as clouds prevail over the Southeast. Beautiful.
ReplyDeleteAll the rain over there is amazing considering back when we lived in Alabama they were in the midst of a drought.
Deletewithout a dream in my heart, without a love of my own.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful shots of this rare occurrence. Does this mean that you're mooning us?
Only with the real moon!
DeleteWow, you got some great shots! I was wondering the same thing about why #3 instead of #4? Oh well, it's nifty anyway!
ReplyDeleteIt's an interesting consideration that almost everyone seems to think as soon as they hear that.
DeleteI've never seen blue moon. Thanks for the great photos, Shirley!
ReplyDeleteOne of the fascinating things about the world is we get to see the same moon phases each day.
Delete