The Owl Tree

We arrived at Croton Point Park on Wednesday, April 1st and it seems like it was just yesterday. The days have been filled with scheduled doctor's appointments, selling furniture and giving Allie a good spring cleaning - a whirlwind of activities - all good ones, thankfully.

After we got the interior of Allie all spiffed up, "G" had the huge task of cleaning her exterior, which took a beating with rain, snow, salt and ice. 

I've attached a couple of pictures of our arrival to our "Summer Hangout."

Crossing the State line!

The view from the Beacon-Newburg Bridge

Allie in "her spot" for the spring and summer.

Lucy, posing for a photo while watching dad getting Allie all hooked up.

Lucy's hangout. Especially on "sheet day."

She doesn't discriminate - she likes the white sheets just as much as the striped ones.

At the beginning of the week, I finally got a chance to visit "The Owl Tree," as it is being referred to by everyone in the area. A pair of Great Horned Owls built a nest in the crook of a tree and three babies hatched a few weeks ago.  It looks as if the nest needs an addition because mommy and daddy do not fit inside any longer. 

Baby near the end of the lower branch. You can see his "horns."

Mama or papa owl in one tree.

I snapped a picture of one of the parents in an adjacent tree, who was "seemingly" asleep, but every once in awhile, a look of disdain would be cast upon all the curious on-lookers. I've gotten to enjoy close up views of the whole family through my own, and other bird-watchers' binoculars. They are magnificent, and while I observe them I find proof that there is a "greater force" in action around us. The parenting skills of the adults is quite amazing to witness.

I've visited "The Owl Tree" every day since and am enjoying watching how fast these little guys are growing. The eldest of the three hatchlings tried to fly sometime between yesterday and today and ended up grounded but luckily, not injured. It just climbed up another tree and is gearing up for its second attempt. I am getting so attached to these downy creatures that I'm starting to feel pride as they climb, stretch and grow.

The fans of the owls.

Last weekend we celebrated "G's" mom's 80th birthday at The Ship Lantern Inn, in Milford, NY. It was a delicious dinner with family and friends. Not a "total" surprise but great, nonetheless. Tomorrow is another busy day, as I will be godmother to my little (?) nephew, Jack. 

Jumping Jack Flash!

Like I said at the beginning of the entry, it's been a whirlwind, but it has been exciting and glorious. Life is, indeed, beautiful.

Deep thought for the day:   “Drink wine. This is life eternal. This is all that youth will give you. It is the season for wine, roses and drunken friends. Be happy for this moment. This moment is your life.” ~ Omar Khayyam