Before I retired I tried to imagine what it would be like not to have to work.
It was inconceivable, because I had to work,
often sixty plus hours a week at school,
and then there was the second (third?) shift at home.
I don't know how I did it,
I don't know how people do it.
All I know is that I am grateful to be retired,
and I'm thankful for every sacrifice Terry and I made to fund our retirement.
We lived below our means, and we saved throughout our lives.
It was worth it.
On a snowy day, I can burrow under the covers and not come out;
The Canadians are hunkered down in Sunday's snowstorm.
Yes, I know they are Canada geese,
but my family has always called them the Canadians.
Aurora, Colorado, USA
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and on a gorgeous winter day like today,
I can walk out the door, worry free, and enjoy the wonder of it all.
Old Lady Cottonwood,
down, but not out.
Aurora, Colorado, USA
January 23, 2018
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No sooner was I down in the Aurora City Park that winds along Piney Creek,
then four F-16C+ fighters screamed overhead.
How I would love to fly in one of these!
I live a few miles south of the runway for Buckley Air Force Base.
So Hard to Catch!
An F-16 out of Buckley Air Force Base
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I have walked in this park and observed nature for twelve years.
Each time is unique and has its own beauty.
Winter Pond
Along Piney Creek, Aurora City Park
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Who Walked Here?
Along Piney Creek, Aurora City Park
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Winter Bullrushes
Along Piney Creek, Aurora City Park
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On a winter day, the park is silent,
until you come upon a thicket alive with birdsong.
A flock of sparrows hides among the branches,
and their vibrant voices make your heart sing!
One of Many
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Piney Creek
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Well, hello there!
I came across a herd of deer ~
I counted fifteen ~
and I was so excited.
I've watched these deer for over a decade,
but with all the construction in the area lately,
I've rarely see them.
Muley Buck
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Ice and Reflections
Lower Pond along Piney Creek
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Peek-a-Boo! I See You!
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On warm winter days, the mule deer like to linger in the sunshine
and browse on dry grasses and the leaves or twigs of shrubs, woody vines, or trees.
Muleys and Cottonwoods
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A Doe
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A Buck and Two Does
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Keeping an Eye on Me
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A Favorite Cottonwood Grove for the Deer
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The Muley Herd
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A Timeless Winter Scene
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The park along Piney Creek is filled with many fascinating things.
I loved this cottonwood, and I cried the day I saw the wind had felled it.
Now I watch its slow death throes, and the life it harbors as it dies.
Old Lady Cottonwood Transforming
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The park is quiet now, waiting for spring,
but on a sunny winter day it fills your heart with promise.
Waiting for New Tenants Come Spring
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Winter Cottonwood Leaves
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The Park Entrance
from Heritage Eagle Bend, Aurora
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I can't wait to come back and spend time in this special place!
I'm so grateful to be retired!
Yours Truly
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