OK . . . going to call it. Winter is over.
The aspen tree has buds. We’ve had a week of 60 degree days, and a robin showed up at the feeder. All signs that spring has sprung.
We’re not so naive to think a winter storm isn’t possible, but at this point it appears unlikely.
The week has been busy with errands, but we made time for a trip to the river. It’s very spring-like in the Crooked River Canyon these days.
The river is fishing very well, so that brings a lot of people. Also, there has been an increase in wildlife among the willows and junipers.
Those rowdy Magpies are back, though not yet at last year’s force, but then its still early.
While the Magpies were making a racket in the juniper trees, on the far bank a pair of Kingfishers were scouting for a meal.
When you look at Kingfishers it’s easy to see why people believe birds evolved from dinosaurs.
Warmer weather brings better fishing. The water doesn’t seem to be much warmer, but it only takes a few degrees to stir life into the aquatic insects.
We managed to hook up quite a few more fish than our typical winter outing . . . although we didn’t have any dry fly action.
The week ahead is forecast with warmer days, so we’re increasing planned excursions.
This week there was a 20 acre fire (debris burn got out of hand) about a mile from our house. As we monitored evacuation notices, we couldn’t help wonder how bad this year’s fire season might actually be.
That said, we are focused on getting in as much outdoor time as possible before air quality gets bad and closures begin.
I wondered how close that fire was to your place. Beautiful pics as usual!