I almost didn’t go . . .

I mentally counted all the things on my April Vacation to-do list;  such as cleaning the house, the car, the campground office.  Raking and beautifying the campground entrance.  Laundry.  Eradicating dust bunnies. Ordering for the store.

“You only have three days to tackle that list,” my task-master self, scolded my girls-just-wanna-have-fun self.  “Then you’re off to the writing conference.”

With 80 degree temps and the birds singing outside the office window, my task-master self didn’t stand a chance.  And I’m soooo glad!   I wasn’t on the lake for ten minutes when I found myself amongst not one . . .

Waggling a foot and preening

Preening

Not two . . .

Resurfacing

Or even three loons . . .

But four, feeding together.

They were so much fun to watch.  I heard soft hooting when one or more found themselves separated from the group.  Whenever the eagle neared, they cried in warning to each other.   I sat, teary eyed (yes, I’m a sap) watching as they searched for their next meal . . .

I was so in awe of their beauty and grace.

They obviously haven’t laid eggs yet because one parent is always on the nest. But I don’t think it will be long now.  I happen to know their favorite spot, so I’ll keep you posted.

As I left the loons to head for home, I heard a familiar cry.  I couldn’t quite place where I’d heard it before, so I followed the sound into a small inlet, which I know from experience is home to many wildlife.  I quietly paddled my way in and stumbled upon this . . .

Can you see two eagles?

Two eagles flapping around on the ground.  At first, I thought they were mating, but  I quickly decided they were battling.  The eagle who’s harder to see, looked much like a juvenile.  I have seen adult eagles chase off young ones before.

Then I wondered if they were locked together.  In my research, I’d read how that can happen, sometimes in mid-air, tumbling to their deaths. Just as I was wondering who I’d call in a situation like this, they broke apart, shook themselves off and after several warning squawks, headed in opposite directions.

I paddled for home, happy to see Ben and Cookie waiting for me on shore.

As I snapped photos of them, the second eagle came in for a landing on the nest and I couldn’t resist a few more pictures . . .

I have so many more amazing photos, but I think I’ll save those for another post.

For the three hours I was on the lake today, I felt as if I was channeling the main character from the middle grade series I’ve been cautiously submitting.  Now I’m more determined than ever to find a home for my story.

If you’d like to see more photos from that day, you can also check out Maxwell Moose’s blog, on our campground website.