Oldsquaw

Did I mention that my brother is a 5th-generation decoy carver?

Apparently, our family emigrated from Yorkshire to America in the 1600's and my ancestors became hunting guides and decoy carvers (we certainly aren't descended from royalty!) I think it's pretty neat that my brother carries on a family tradition.

Pictured above is a duck that is local to our area. We always called it an "Oldsquaw," but the name was changed to "Long-Tailed Duck."

Thanks so much for your warm comments about my lovely stepdaughter, Meg. As many of you pointed out, we are very lucky to have each other and to have such a close bond. I know blended families don't always work out so well, so I really count my blessings.