Peace at the Pond and my wish for you...

I just had to go back for three consecutive days, leaving all of the holiday prep behind. Free time dictates, you know.

The Great Blue Heron delights me.

Patient and vigilant with its powerful sight,

slow and deliberate walking motion beneath the calm waves…ahhh.

It found lunch and devoured it, hidden behind a tree.

I coasted to park the car and turned off the ignition. To my left sat the Belted Kingfisher, perched in a tree about twenty feet away. Heart rate up. The windows were closed (damn!) and I powered the camera quickly to get a fine portrait of her, only to realize the lens cap was in the way and I cursed. She was gone.

With a full and blurry zoom, I can see the gleam in her eye, at least.

It was a surprise to see a lifer in the bottom of a photo I had downloaded two days prior. Not the usual Canadian Goose or Mallard… I had to go back!

The skies were dark and the winds were biting but I didn’t mind my numbing fingers or watery eyes. I waited for her.

There she was, a female Hooded Merganser (Click to enlarge all photos). Much smaller and busier than the rest,

she spent more of her time under water than above it.

Could this be one of the many large Comets or Shubunkins I set free in this very same pond? I doubt it. If so, I consider them my gifts.

Gaining control.

‘Twas worth the struggle. Bravo.

Rested and full.

I don’t know how long I was there, taking in the beauty of the pond and the life it sustains. There, I felt peace.

It was my time to think. I wondered how many people stop to look or even notice this pond on their way in to the food store, the bank, the pizza joint, or the nail salon. They only need to glance to their right…

For a few moments, I turned my focus behind me and saw the hustle and bustle. There were cars racing towards the strip mall and I saw the Mexican construction workers laughing on the jobsite. I heard the Latino music blaring from their trailer.

Funny, I didn’t hear or notice any of that until I turned around to look behind me.

At home, I faced another challenge - one that I welcome. You know – my desire for a portrait of a Tufted Titmouse that will make me proud. There’s still time…

Time and a disconnect from all the pressure. This is what I wish for you. In large or small doses – whatever you can manage during the holiday season, I wish you peace.

Merry Christmas! With love.