The Upgrade

Our neighborhood bald eagles began refurbishing their nest in mid-January. Over a period of several weeks, we watched them haul in long, sturdy branches, cattail reeds, and shreds of cambium. Even from a respectful distance, we can tell that the remodel features noticeably higher walls and an upstairs deck. 

The eagles have also been preying upon Canada geese, presumably for the meat but possibly also for a goose-down comforter for the chicks. 

"Does the eagle mount up at your command, and make its nest on high?" ~Job 39:27 (NKJV)

Jogger's World

I like to call myself a runner, but my pace (which I won't specify) designates me a jogger. Being slow of trot does have one perk, however: I don't scare the eagles. 

This morning, I jogged close enough to get these shots with my phone camera. 

"Go fast enough to get there, but slow enough to see." ~Jimmy Buffet

Farm Chic

Angel is always polished and camera-ready: eye shadow, 3D mascara, lip gloss, earrings, highlights. The wings aren't trending just now, but Angel might just change that. 

"Joy is the best makeup." ~Anne Lamott

Ladies-in-Waiting

It won't be long now. 

"Let all that I am wait quietly before God, for my hope is in him." ~Psalm 62:5 (NLT)

Bluebirds of a Feather

When my parents named me Robin, I'm sure they couldn't foresee the avian-related nicknames that I'd earn from other kids. Even my best friend's dad, a most likable fellow whose sense of humor was influenced by his choice of beverages, regularly called me Bluebird.  

Despite my name and monikers, I had eyes only for horses back then. It took birds quite a while to catch my notice. Now, although I know little about my winged relatives, I'm quite a fan--especially of mountain bluebirds. 

Yesterday's unusual (for this area and time of year) sighting of mountain bluebirds set my heart soaring. My phone camera does little justice to these little beauties, but this was the first time I've ever been able to capture one--well, three-fourths of one--in flight. 

"Suddenly, as rare things will, it vanished." ~Elizabeth Barrett Browning

Nonconformity

When it comes to cattle, Wyoming is a black state. Known for their hardiness and palatability, Black Angus populate the vast majority of farms, fields, and feedlots.

Roughly 55% of our small herd are black baldies (meaning they're black with white facial markings). Since we used Hereford bulls last year, that percentage will increase dramatically by the time calving season is over. (We should even see a few red baldies thrown into the mix.)

Hubby is something of a Black Angus snob, but even he admits that our Hereford-cross cows (and especially Hereford bulls) are far more good-humored than most Angus. 

I'm all for docility myself, but the artist in me adores the remarkable variation of pattern and contrast in baldy cattle. Brand me a nonconformist. 

                        

                     

            

"In such a diversity it was impossible I should be disposed to melancholy." ~Daniel Boone

Padding

As another "arctic blast" bears down upon us, Minnie, Meels, and Moey kindly demonstrate the concept of insulation, a strategy employed by most of our critters. Winter can't get in!

"It's snowing still," said Eeyore gloomily.

"So it is."

"And freezing."

"It is?"

"Yes," said Eeyore. "However," he said, brightening up a little, "we haven't had an earthquake lately."

                         ~A.A. Milne