Happy Mother (Nature) Day

If you can't spend time with your own mother on Mother's Day, Mother Nature is a great second choice.

I did get to do some special bonding with my mother-in-law, sister-in-law and a few other mothers on her hubby's side of the family. Then Jim and I were off to the river with our neighbors. When it's sunny and mid-70s, you gotta take advantage and paddle!

The first time we were out this year, the trees were all still bare. It was nice to see plenty of green besides my kayak.

Saw an eagle's nest early on, but no action in the vicinity.

Sneaked up on a blue heron!

We're wondering when this tree is going to just fall right on top of us. Just keeps hanging on. For now, that is. Makes for a neat picture anyway.

Putting the mothers in Mother Nature!

Jim and Mike sharing a story or two.

Love this picture. Looks like Cindy is on a mission to pass Mike!

Wind was not constant. Water actually looks calm here as we approach the southern end of "the big island."

Rounded the bend and this poor mother duck was escorting her babies across the windy waves. I'm sure these ducklings were willing to do anything for Mother's Day and were hoping crossing the big river wasn't one of them!

Saw an eagle in flight and followed him into a cove. With his bright white head, he was easy spot. That and the huge nest he was guarding.

As pure luck would have it, the baby popped his head up just as I was taking this picture. What a lucky shot! Guess he is starting his photo-bombing early.

Despite the fact my phone blared Guns N' Roses' Sweet Child of Mine when Carter called while I was floating towards the nest, the eagle stayed in place, looking stoic like they do. This is not helping me win my argument for a new camera with better zoom...

It was pretty cool to be talking to my son on Mother's Day while floating on the river and having this view. Sort of the best of both worlds!

Which we deserve on Mother's Day, naturally.