Spring at the Ditch

I promised you a peek at the ditch in the spring.

 

And a look at Harry -- more of that in a minute!

But I can't resist sharing these blossoms from one of the trees in the neighborhood on the walk down.

Shooting at this time of year is wonderful because the bushes and trees on the perimeter haven't gone into full leaf yet and it's a bit easier to have a clearer view.

Look afar! One of the sweet surprises is Mama Goose (Duck Lady calls her Gracie and her mate, George). She has a nest on the edge of the large pond. Duck Lady tells me that when she turns her head away, she is actually turning her eggs. DL anticipated that the babies would hatch over the weekend but I haven't been back to see (and indeed -- would I be able to see? There is no way to get close to this!)

Look up! The Red-Winged blackbirds are out in full force. I love these cheery birds and for once they managed to stay put long enough to get a good photo.

Look down! You'll find bunches of wild violets or periwinkle in patches.

Someone has planted daffodils every so often and they add some bright cheer along the path.

Look ahead! You might just find a family out for their walk with their Bengal cat on a leash. This beautifully marked animal was very intrigued by something under the pine branches!



Look out on the pond! There's Harry. Back in his full majestic glory.

I don't know if this Harry is last year's Harry -- or if the Harry I saw in these twilight photos...


Is the same Harry I saw the next day on my morning walk.

 

Doesn't really matter to me. Harry symbolizes spring and beauty and that the ice is gone and the temperatures are warmer.



He is grace and precision, intently stalking the water for his dinner, balancing as he grooms, elegantly standing on the shore.

It's spring. At long last, spring.