finding bald eagles

We were kayaking one day at our campground and someone pointed out a bald eagle. I don't know birds, but once we got closer, it was obviously a bald eagle. I have only recently started enjoying my bird feeders. I have officially reached the age where I go buy bird food willingly. There's nothing more peaceful than enjoying a morning cup of coffee while watching birds playing at my bird station. 

And now I can get excited about bird sightings on the kayak. There is a HUGE nest on the other side of the lake. It is an easy ride. Even if you aren't in shape, the kayak doesn't take much effort to get across the lake. Once you cross the lake, the nest comes into view. After that, you just sit and wait. 

One day we saw the mom, dad, and baby eagles all on their own trees in their own branches. On this particular day, we saw one of the eagles swoop in and land on this branch. Despite not knowing birds, it was a majestic thing to watch. This is a bit different than luring cardinals and hummingbirds to my little feeder station! They fly around and then perch so regally that it doesn't even look real. 

The midwest truly IS a great place to be. We have great cheese, great beer, great pizza, and great football. There are many fun things to see and do. Obviously America's symbol of freedom and hope likes the midwest as well :) This bird just made our day. It is easy to convince a kid to kayak, row farther, or stay out a bit longer than promising a view of a bald eagle!

fun, free weekend in Wisco

After being cooped up in the house through cold, wind, snow, and now extreme heat, we were excited to get out and enjoy nature. Free fun weekend in Wisconsin is always a good time. Biking trails are free, fishing is free, and entry to state parks is free.

We went up to Yellowstone State Park for the first time and it was great. If you don't mind an easy route with some slight inclines, try hiking Timber. The trails were really clear and there was lots to see. They have bat houses everywhere so thw bigs weren't even that bad.

Next up was lounging on the beach with kayak rides compliments of our little blow up kayak. You can't even make up a good day like we had! Grilling out, digging in the sand, laughing and chatting... It was great. Vitamin D really does do the body good. 

Just don't forget sunscreen. We got that far and then forgot the reapply step! With only an hour (ish) drive and a quick stop near Monroe for gas and cheese curds, I would say this was a great day. Next time we will actually spend the night and see how that goes.

Summer fun has officially begun and my heart is full, tan lines are back and sleep is even easier!!!