Swans

As I was leaving Celery Bog Saturday, two swans were sauntering down the drive. I immediately stopped the car and started taking photos, which didn't phase them in the least. I don't know swans and assumed they're trumpeter swans (because they're more common here, I think), but after I got the pictures home and started looking in books, I wasn't sure. I decided their bills are those of a mute swan; at least, that's what I come up with after looking at several pictures of the bills.

Either way, it was fun to get so close to them after only seeing them across the marsh.

Anyone who might know more than I do, please feel free to clarify this for me. Thanks!

Edit: thanks to all who replied via INBIRD and other ways -- definitely mute swans, and it's nice to have the confirmation!

I thought they were going to fly away at this point but the one was just... stretching or something, I guess!

Although it looks like s/he's running, this swan was merely plodding along... I love those huge feet!

ice and eagles, support and strength

I woke up to sunshine and cold: zero -- a nice brisk temperature. Most people wouldn't consider this good hiking weather but I couldn't wait to get out in the fresh, crisp air. I spent some time at Celery Bog and blissfully had it all to myself. Ice crystals were everywhere, including over most of the water in the marsh.


The highlight of the morning, however, was seeing four bald eagles gliding in slow circles above the Wabash, making their way downstream.

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One kind word can warm three winter months. ~Japanese Proverb

Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire: it is the time for home. ~Edith Sitwell


In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer. ~ Albert Camus



From serenity comes gentleness, comes lasting strength. ~Pam Brown

I don't mean to be redundant, but I've continued to be so touched and moved by so many. I'm grateful for friendship, support, love, understanding, compassion -- kind words, the touch of a friendly hand; for finding that invincible summer again, and rediscovering serenity and lasting strength.

gratitude

Let's be grateful for those who give us happiness; they are the charming gardeners who make our soul bloom. ~Marcel Proust


I don't know who said, "A true friend is someone who reaches for your hand and touches your heart," but I've found that quote especially appropriate lately. Thanks to all who have reached out to hold my hand with support, laughter, and understanding -- who held tight and helped pull me from the dark waters I feel like I was living in for too long. My heart has been touched and I'm grateful for all of you. I've found things opening up for me in ways I couldn't have imagined possible a few short weeks ago.

I'm grateful for the people who have helped illuminate my life, who have provided insights and clarity, and who have encouraged nourishing and healthy choices.

Most of all, I'm grateful for those who help my soul bloom. There is heaven on earth, and it's found deep within our own selves.