Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Is spring on the way.......

I am slowing getting back to normal, I told Roger today I felt like myself for the first time in what feels like ages. Every evening, I have been watching the sunset and thinking how wonderful it would be to drive through the strip pits so tonight I was able to act upon the thought. The first thing I noticed was that the red-winged blackbirds were back...not in great number but several here and there.

My first photo opportunity was this short-eared owl....I spied him on the ground first. Normally the first thing I do when I turn into the strip pits is to get my camera out and set to take pictures. Tonight I was just so glad to be out that I didn't even think about it. So, by the time I got it out and the iso set to 1600, and got out of the vehicle...I only snapped one on the ground plus a few of him in the air....this very first one being the best.

Then on down at the main pond we see stuff at, I saw these three sandhill cranes...at least I am pretty sure that is what they were. They down close to the far end, and it being late, I did not get a great shot....but when I enlarge the original shots, I am pretty sure that is what they are.

Other than the red-wings, the single owl, the sandhill cranes, and a few waterbirds, I saw at least 18 deer. All too far away for a decent shot with it getting as late as it was.

You see, I had been sewing and lost track of time. So I got out there later than I had meant to. but it feels so wonderful to be feeling better....and to just be able to sleep. And every time I am sick, I cannot help but think about people that have major illnesses to contend with every day of their life and here I whine about losing a few nights sleep, and and feel bad for a few days.