The Swan

Really pretty viewed larger here.

When I was a child, my parents would take us to Echo Lake Park to see the swans. They must have made a huge impression on me because as an adult, I've collected a number of swans including a 1930's milk glass vase, crystal and silver sugar and salt bowls, needlepoint, television lamps and Armani. They've all been gifts to my sister.

I haven't seen swans at Echo or any of the surrounding lakes in fifteen years but I've been wondering where they might be. This morning I was struck by an impulse to meander through Gillette and Warren just to see what I might discover. I took a few pictures of crows, reeds and chinese cherry blossoms but after awhile became hungry enough to try to find the Thai restaurant in Sterling that I remember from long ago. As I rounded the Watchung circle, I saw two swans gliding in the lake!

It feels as if something dear to me has come home. I watched in fascination as the two young swans moved in unison with one another; they seemed to be twins, very protective of one another.

A large group of seagulls were hunkered on the waterfall dam and I couldn't help but think of gladders. It's something how the blip community all over the world becomes part of one's life. Thinking of you all... xo

More swans here on flickr.