In between yesterday's rain and the snow that's forecasted tomorrow. The pond is frozen solid. The trees are bare. What was it that she's still doing here? Out and about on this cold...cold winter morning?

I answered her startled gaze with an equally startled one of my own. Perhaps she was wondering the same? Or perhaps - she'd been expecting me?

And then - I decided - she was probably just waiting to reassure and remind me that the prize is right here in the process. That it's all about showing up...about patience and practice...and that all good things happen with that.

I brought my hands together at heart's center. I bowed my head. I chanted the familiar and universal namaste' - may all our inner lights burn bright.

And - I watched quietly...as she spread her wings and flew away.

* * *

Best wishes for a Happy and Healthy New Year!

* * *

Psssst....in honor of a new start and fresh beginning - I've re-enabled the comments here.