Dock delivery, Loons and More Running Around

Yesterday got a bit redirected when we heard the news that our dock (that we ordered a few weeks ago) was to be delivered and installed today. We weren't expecting it for a few weeks yet and we were not ready for it. Without going into too much detail, it required tons of physical labor (mostly on my husband's part... not so much me with the lame back) And many trips into town and up and down the steps to the lake (more than 70 each way...) Somehow, the day was gone and we got it all accomplished (I couldn't believe that my husband could even move today!) and they showed up at the crack of dawn to start on the installation of the new dock. They had to bring it over by boat (no way they were carrying those heavy sections down our hill). There is a boat launch on the neighboring lake that is on fairly flat land. So they loaded it 2 sections at a time into a boat, scooted through the channel that connects the lakes and delivered the pieces to our lot. Then they built it on site... and oh what a lovely sight it is! We have been in need of a new one for quite a while and we added a few sections this time so that we have a sunning platform on the end. Even though we are both VERY tired, we couldn't be happier with it.

Now while all of this was going on this morning, I noticed the loons moving closer to our side of the lake. One, two, three of them! We usually only see the pair, but today they had junior (born last year) with them. The egg they had this year didn't make it, so it was nice to see them out and about. It has been a stressful time for them. So I flew struggled up the stairs to get my camera, came back down and found a good vantage point for some loon images. They didn't seem to be bothered by me (though I was laying on my belly, trying to disappear into my neighbor's dock) and fished, frolicked and preened for a good deal of time near enough for me to get this. They are still quite a distance from me, but I liked the performance and thought I would share it with you.

We were off and running for the rest of the afternoon. I plan to crash this evening, hopefully, with my iPad and your journals... as long as I can keep my eyes open. ;)