Thursday, 16 June 2005 - National Geographic moments

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for National Geographic moments.

Within the confines of our Colorado neighborhood, I have had the privilege of seeing many wild animals including:

• a bald eagle
• a mother brown bear and cub
• mountain lions
• coyotes
• various snakes including rattlers
• mule deer
• rabbits
• foxes
• raccoons

Currently, we are watching the Finch fledglings grow up. The nest sits in the middle of the Christmas wreath that hangs on our front door - a great location since it's shady, quiet and protected. By looking through the door's peephole, we can observe the parents tending the babies.

Feeding four little ones is a frenzied affair. As soon as the mother or father arrives at the nest with food, the babies respond by chirping loudly and thrusting their tiny heads upward with beaks wide open. Once they've consumed their share of the meal, they preen before settling down for another nap. I noticed that the fledglings now have feathers - a sign that, in a few weeks, they'll reach maturity and fly away.

For these blessings, I am grateful.

Amen.