I seem to be on a bird kick lately. I guess I’m enjoying all the new birds passing through our area this time of year. Here’s a photo I made literally while sitting at a table on a porch having coffee at a B&B in SW Wisconsin. It seemed almost like a morning coffee clutch with friends, I with my brew and these two with their sweet water.

Last spring and summer I followed the exploits of two baby robins whose parents decided the back porch of my studio was the perfect place to build their nest. I had to curtail the use of the back door so as not to disturb them as the two grew into feathery little fledges. However, a few times I did take the liberty to move in with my little point and shoot to make a few photos, much to the displeasure of mother and father robin as you can see by their raised topknot. I’m happy to say that both were able to fly free from the nest leaving behind one little brother or sister that, for whatever reason, did not hatch. Well spring is here again, so watch closely for all the new little ones emerging from the trees, bushes and fence posts around your home ... enjoy and give thanks.

It isn’t often I get a Sunday to myself, especially during the wedding season. Plus I’m usually so stiff and sore from photographing a long event that I usually just crash in my Hammock on the back deck. But its winter now, so last Sunday I grabbed my cross country skis and walked over to the boat landing near our home. It was a bright sunny day of intense blue sky. I clipped on the skis and started to make my way to the center of Lake Monona, the sound of polished fiberglass against gritty snow and Ice. When I arrived at the middle of the lake I put the skis aside and sat on the snow. It was bright, white and quiet, only a slight breeze reminding me of winter’s cold as beads of perspiration began to freeze on my beard. I sat there and just took in the vast stretch of white undulating snow and light.  A calm emerged in me and my soul felt cleansed. Peace, light, and an expanse of blue and white.  Ah, if only a weekend like this could be the rule rather than the exception…..GRB

My sister Terri called the other day and invited me to spend some time kayaking on a backwater near Madison. I jumped at the chance to take a break from my recent heavy schedule of wedding and portraits assignments. Although I’m an experienced canoe paddler this was my first time in a Kayak. It was great being so close to the water, especially as we watched a swarm of amorous carp spawning in the shallows. I was surprised we didn’t have one jump out of the water and into our laps. The only downside resulting from this little trip is I now feel my wallet getting a bit lighter as I contemplate purchasing one of these nifty little crafts.

All in all it was a wonderful morning and so nice to have some quality time with my dear sister.