As I was pulling into the driveway, coming from work, I chanced upon a bird on top of the pine tree. I knew it wasn’t a common bird that I normally see in my yard. It was a bird of prey. My husband has been wanting a photo of a hawk for a long time but we can never get close enough to get a good shot.

I parked the car hurriedly in the garage since these chances don’t last long. I left my belongings in the car, went inside, ignored mango’s squawking for attention, and headed directly to the bedroom where the camera was. I quickly slapped on the 300 zoom lens as it was impossible to get close to the hawk, and I immediately took off–exiting through the garage. Huh! The hawk disappeared! He must have heard/known that I was coming to photo shoot him. I was utterly disappointed!

A few minutes later, my husband and I went for a walk in the Green Valley park. I suggested that we take the camera just in case we see something interesting worth taking on our walk. At first, he was against the idea, but somehow, I managed to convince him. As we were pulling out of the driveway, the hawk returned to his post. It was a good thing my camera was ready and loaded. I went out of the car and gingerly walk closer to the hawk. I wasn’t sure how far he would allow me to approach him. I took several shots as if they were my only chance. I walked closer and closer and closer. And miraculously, he was still allowing me to snap pictures despite of my proximity. I was never that close to a hawk before. I was so keyed up but tried to maintain my composure. My husband was watching inside the car, from afar, and holding his breath. Finally, the hawk has had enough of me and flew away.

Then, we drove to the park to take our afternoon walk. The park is only a mile away from home. I was very much looking forward to seeing the igret that frequents the lake every afternoon. I didn’t mind hauling the heavy camera at all. Lo and behold, I saw a white silhouette from a distance. It was an igret! How lucky could I get? It looked like he sensed I was coming to take photos of him. I was very cautious in approaching–trying to avoid any sudden movements. Fortunately, he allowed me to get close enough to photograph him. I was awed by his beauty and elegance. Indeed, today is my lucky day.

And not far from the igret, posed the blue heron, almost invisible because of his camouflage. My husband spotted him first. I crossed the road and slowly walked close enough to be able to take decent pictures. I could tell he didn’t approve of me getting close. The closer I got, the farther he went away. I was lucky enough that he allowed me to take a couple of shots.

My husband took a picture of these wild geese. Soon, they will disappear and move towards south where the weather is warmer.

At the end of our walk, we were saluted with this fiery sunset.