Jordan Lake Dam, Haw River:  Aa I photographed this bald eagle, flying towards the rising sun this morning, I found myself thinking about this afternoon and its promise of possibilities: the possibility to once again gather in small groups, the possibility to be responsible in our distances within those groups, the possibility to protect others by wearing our masks.  It is hard, as a social species, to be apart and not gather and hug and hold each other.  But, we humans can do what the bald eagle cannot: we can thoughtfully make decisions and then live by them.  I am waiting as patiently as possible – to know that all of you are safe and healthy. So, go into this afternoon, rejoice and know that this is a first step.   Peace and Grace, Doc Ellen

The two chicks have fledged. The park rangers have let me know that the two babies of Momma Kate and Dad Petruchio at First Nest have flown. I wish I could have seen that happen and brought to you photos of the event but the stay-in-place kept me from that part of the lake. But it is good to know that the babies are out and flying. The photo here is one of the fledgling from last year from First Nest. So some good news in the middle of all these tense times.

2019 Fledgling of First Nest