One of those times when you have to say, “Wow!”

Hi everyone,

Some mornings will stop you in your tracks just to give Mother Nature a two thumbs up. Here’s an example: the sun beaming on a new day at Goose Lake.

If this makes you feel like writing a poem, be my guest. It’s a quick prompt for today.

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Poor Mother Goose

Hi everyone,

Mother Goose had no more than laid her eggs and settled down for the long wait when our heavy rains put an end to her efforts after only a few days.
In the first picture you can see her mate keeping watch from a few yards away. The same day I saw him suddenly lift off with great wings flapping and chase away another goose, presumably also a gander, who was swimming too close to his mate on her nest.

I was looking forward to “interviewing” both birds this year because hubby seems to have matured from the old days when he spent most of his time across the lake hanging with pals. Alas, both birds have left. Yesterday I saw a pair (them?) wandering around our front yard. Perhaps they’ll try again. If they do, I hope they’ll show more sense than God gave a goose and choose a safer spot.

Susan and Danny Hutchens

Hi everyone,

Two days ago Sandy and I had the pleasure of a visit from our formerly-from-Missouri-now-from-Colorado friends, Susan and Danny Hutchens. They attended the Children’s Literature Festival in Warrensburg and were working their way home by way of a bit of sightseeing along the way.

Susan wanted to see Goose Lake because I natter on about it so much so I took them into our back yard and proudly introduced them to the lake. I pointed down the steps from the top of our yard to the water and explained that sometimes “Mother Goose” nests on the landing and I often have conversations with her.

Sandy walked to angle that allowed her to see the landing. Sure enough, there was Mother on her nest. Right on cue.

Last year the lake rose and drowned her eggs. Plus, this year we have sighted foxes in our yard. I fear the worse but intend to have a chat with Mother before long. I’ll let you know her mood.

We call it Missouri weather

Hi everyone,

A few days ago it was ice. Yesterday it was spring. Today we’re expecting more cold and maybe snow. Never boring around here.

In the meantime I’ve finished redrafting a long story, plotted a new picture book in my head (while attending a funeral), finished a new poem, and received encouraging news about a book that’s been making the rounds for some time.

And what will the bird do then, poor thing

Hi everyone,

At -5 chill factor, even hungry birds take precautions. Look closely.

Let me bring it up a little closer. Look under the rock.

One seed at a time is better than none.

And life goes on around Goose Lake.