Where shall I put this?

Goldfinch in the snow

“To appreciate the beauty of a snow flake, it is necessary to stand out in the cold.”

-Author Unknown

Two Eagles for you

I think the saying is that a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush? But I did get a thrill when I saw these 2 juvenile Bald Eagles in the tree, twice as nice I think. I dedicate this to you - thank you so much for answering my questions on why you blog. Your input is invaluable. Your bloggy friendship is priceless.

Shelley

The Michigan Audubon Society said what?

When I walked into the house the other day, I thought my husband was playing a joke on me.

Greg: The Michigan Audubon Society called.
Me: Oh, do they want me to renew my membership?
Greg: No, they want you to speak at their annual conference.
Me: Quit playing around, what did they want?
Greg: No seriously!! They've been reading your blog and want you to speak about it.
Me: You're not very funny. What did they really say?
Greg: Here's the number, call!

Needless to say, he wasn't kidding and I am extremely honored. (Also embarrassed, they must think I'm obsessed with Mourning Doves and poop. ) So on March 7th at the Kellog Center in East Lansing, Michigan - I am going to be speaking about blogging and birding - two of my favorite things!! Here's where you come in, my dear bloggy friends. (Do you like how I kiss up to you before I ask you for something?)

I know why I blog. I wanted a place to connect with people with similar interests, expand my learning and promote the importance of wildlife and nature. But I need your help and would like your input!

1. Why do you blog?
2. What have you gained from it?
3. For some of my older crowd - what difficulties did you first find when you started blogging? How did you overcome it?

Thank you in advance for your input!

Catch me if you can

This is a female Downy Woodpecker that was considering eating out of my hand a few weeks ago at the cabin. You should have seen me trying to position the camera in one hand and put seeds in the other to see if I could snap it. (I told my husband he really needs to start being available to take photos of me with my bird friends! ha,ha.) She flew over my hand several times but then decided to head over to the tree. I'm going to see if the Chickadees will vouch for me!

For Sandy

You must go visit Sandy at Birds, Bees, Bugs and Blossoms! Click here . She recently did a beautiful sketch of a recent photo I took this week of the nuthatch and downy. Sandy is a talented artist as well as photographer and she has a beautiful view of the world through her eyes.

I dedicate today's Hairy Woodpecker to Sandy! Thank you Sandy!

Bob the Mourning Dove's New Years Resolution