Substack kindly keeps a running count of my “top” posts, but I have no idea how they figure it out. Originally I thought it might be based on the number of likes a given post had garnered and indeed, this year’s foothills flowers post lends some credence to that theory. It received 15 likes, far more than any other post I’ve published, and Substack does in fact consider it my most popular post.
While the Turkish poppy photo above appeared in that post, the one below did not. It’s a shot of poppies in the foothills, very close to the one above, gone to seed — less than 2 1/2 months later. At the time, I shot it as a form of documentation but, once I got home, I realized I kinda liked it on its own. If nothing else, the two photos provide a great illustration of the difference between late April and early July in the Sandia foothills.
As far as my so-called top posts are concerned, Substack identified the fall equinox post as another popular one — despite the fact that it had many fewer likes than others Substack ranked as less popular. All of which is to say that I’m not sure their method is super accurate.
Aside from the murkiness of Substack’s process, there’s my own lack of clarity about what you liked about any given post. Was it what I wrote? Was it a specific photo? Was it some other indefinable quality? Who knows? These might not be 2023’s most popular posts after all!
However, Substack thought the swirly edition of the Ojitos Wilderness was a top post, and I admit I liked it quite a bit myself (above and below).
You also apparently loved the calypso orchid post, which is very gratifying, especially since they are so small, so hard to find, and even more difficult to photograph. I’m most grateful for your appreciation of this delicate and beautiful little wildflower.
So many of you liked the heat wave post that I’ve concluded most of you were suffering this summer’s excessively high temperatures at precisely the same time I was. I’m hopeful the photos gave you at least a psychological break from the heat.
Finally, many of you loved the Apache plume post. While it’s fairly ubiquitous in my part of New Mexico, Apache plume is not a particularly flashy shrub … yet it’s one of my favorites. Apparently a number of you are equally appreciative of its beauty.
Please accept my very best wishes for a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2024.1
I’ll be taking a break from Substack next week to a) relax and b) reassess. Everyday Magic and I will be back in your inbox the second week of January.
Yes, lovely highlights of 2023. I don't think even AI could pick the best ones. It would blow a fuse trying to decide. Good to know a bit about the algorithm now. I usually Comment, but haven't Liked, even though I like them all. Thanks for all your effort in taking the photos and creating the posts and text. Hope you enjoy it as much as we do! Looking forward to more beauties in 2024. Best to you!
Your post all fill my heart with joy. The photos are gorgeous and the commentary engaging. For me personally, they are like coming home.