Birthday Titmouse

Today's image is for my mom, in celebration of her 90th birthday.  I wish I could have found a grackle to photograph today as that is one of her favorite birds, but I think a tufted titmouse is a good substitute.  

We had a nice FT chat this morning.  Dad gave mom some beautiful flowers and tonight they will go out for dinner, but it will otherwise be a fairly quiet day.  Another rainy day in Portland, so walking is off the table.  Happy Birthday, Mom.

Hubs drove down to the NJ shore this morning to meet up with a friend for lunch, leaving Jax and I to our own devices.  We spent some time in the hide although didn't stay out too long.  It's in the mid 30's and sunny so I think Jax enjoyed spending a little time sniffing around in the snow and even sitting for a while on the walkway just enjoying the sun, I guess (see Extra).  I am very happy to report that his rash is getting better and no longer appears so red and angry.  It's still a challenge to get the topical spray on him, so I've resorted to spraying it on my own fingers and applying it to his belly that way.  Hey, whatever works.

Route 80 eastbound into NYC remains closed as a result of the giant sinkhole that opened up yesterday morning.  No predictions on how long it will be closed, but I expect it will be a while since it appears to have affected the supporting structure of the highway.  Fortunately, we don't often have to go that direction so we will not be inconvenienced to the same degree that many will be.  

xo
Debbi