A Peaceable Kingdom

The beautiful weather has made long walks around the Ditch absolutely essential!

The colors are starting to turn, especially the sumac. It's always beautiful.

I've spotted three herons, Harry One, Two and Three (I can't tell them apart!)

And a beautiful white egret who is somewhat more elusive and distant.

It is clearly a peaceable kingdom there, with all the water birds sharing space.

It feels like a lazy day, with most of the ducks taking a break, Harry close by.

My walk begins eight blocks away and I'm fortunate enough to smell the most magnificent honeysuckle bush. It brings back long ago memories of that scent that are unforgettable.

Then I arrive at the Ditch -- the weather has been so beautiful that this is one of the first sights I see.

There is autumn in every step.

I'm most fascinated when I can find Harry hunting. He's so patient.

He'll walk slowly along the edge of one of the ponds, looking up and then down.

And then he goes for it.

If I spend too much time taking photos, I make myself do another loop around at a more suitable walking speed!

Some of the ducks are resting, others sprucing themselves up!

Even the fish seem relaxed -- although none of these happen to be near the birds at the moment!

I am continually in awe of the beauty. At times I gasp -- I can't believe I am so lucky to see this.

I certainly don't relish what happens after the leaves are down.

But for now I'll savor this moment of beauty.

The time it lasts will pass all too quickly.

And soon Harry will be off for the winter, instead of to the next pond (that's him, on the right.)

And I will snuggle in and be warm.