Belted Kingfisher

Well....I went for a walk with Piper and her dad on this beautiful day instead of a bike ride.  I got all ready to go, got on the bike and the motor made a whirring sound and then a clunk.  PD and I tried to troubleshoot but we couldn't figure it out and the bike shop was closed today, so I'll call them tomorrow.  They didn't work on the electrical system or motor at all.  It was just a tune up and brake work.  Hopefully, it's just a loose contact somewhere....

Anyway, we had a lovely walk and I'm grateful for that.  I know I hold them up because I stop so often but they didn't seem to mind.  Piper just had more time to sniff and PD didn't complain.  As we took a fork in the trail, I told PD that I had seen Kingfishers in that area in the past, and minutes later I spotted this lovely female.  She was pretty far away but her distinct profile caught my eye.  It's not the greatest shot but I'm always happy to capture a Kingfisher. :-)

I've included 12 more shots in three collages in the extras.  The first is all  our sweet Piper.  The second collage bottom right is American Bittersweet berries (identified by Seek app), a bright splash of color among the dormant trees.  The third collage upper right is an American Goldeneye and the bottom left is a bronze sculpture of Vernon Golden with his grandson.  He donated the land that became this beautiful nature area, Golden Ponds.

On a not so happy note, my niece, Didyounotice, had a bicycle accident today.  Her wife texted to let me know, but Laura hasn't felt up to talking on the phone.  I don't know any details except that a CT showed a broken shoulder and she'll be seeing an orthopedist tomorrow.  I'm hoping that it isn't too bad!  Please send lots of healing thoughts her way.