A Few Welcomed Guests

I really enjoy the variety of wildlife nature offers along the river. When I see a frequent visitor (like the Osprey below), I feel like they are an old friend.  Reliable.  Consistent.  Certain.  When I see something new, it is like a gift.  Uplifting.  Refreshing.  Amusing.  No matter which, I find great joy and comfort in what I see around me; here are a few pictures that I hope bring you pleasure as well...

This Osprey has been on this same branch before, and I posted a picture, but this time he sat patiently as I snapped away (for a little while anyway).

This is a beautiful Swallowtail butterfly; I've never seen one like this before.   

 I know this picture is blurry, but it is the only one if the red blue spot.  I love that little spot of color!

This interesting fellow was on the ceiling of our back patio...note the iridescent blue and red coloration, pretty cool looking!  I haven't been able to identify it yet...Mamabug, maybe you know:)

I was taking pictures of the sunrise this morning, and saw this beautiful cloud.  Funny thing is, I didn't see the line of birds flying across the sky when I took the picture!  Look at the next picture to see them more clearly (I know you can hardly see them in this one, you can click on the picture to make it larger if you'd like).

See the little specs along the bottom left quarter of the picture,?  I know they are small, but I wanted to "share the moment with you:)

This picture is a bit of a tease like the birds were, so you will have to use your imagination...but a small group of dolphin were gently feeding not too far into the river.  They were rolling about, and though every now and then I saw a fin or a backside, they pretty much stayed under the water. You can see the water disturbance in the lower left corner of the picture.  

Sunrise is one of my favorite times on the river...it is so peaceful.  And I love watching and hearing everything awakening!  I hope you have been able to "feel" it too!

By the way, the spider was there on the deck with yet another web!  Fortunately, it was not directly in my path.  Mamabug identified it as an orb weaver, thanks Mamabug! (Click on the link to see her blog with stunning nature photos.)

I am now heading out to be a welcomed guest:).  A Few of the "river rats", as some lovingly refer to we neighbors/friends, are gathering this evening for good food, good conversation, good memories in the making.  I am sure I'll have things to tell you all about tomorrow!

Thanks for reading my blog, you are the best f/f/r/s/f's, see you tomorrow,
Lise