Recap of a Year

As the year 2010 drew to a close last night it is time to take stock. I have enjoyed several accomplishments during the year, including winning the Feathered Friends category of Birds & Blooms magazine's backyard photo contest 2009-10 and becoming a Competent Communicator and Vice President PR in my Toastmasters club. I have also begun giving presentations about backyard habitats in the local community, which were very well received.
While I did not photograph as many birds as I would have liked during the spring because of the weather, October brought two trips to Ohio where I took beautiful photos of wood ducks and raptors. During the fall we also explored the state parks at Ohiopyle, Pymatuning, Moraine, and Raccoon Creek. While the foliage was not as beautiful as in years past we enjoyed the warm weather nonetheless.
May brought sorrow to our house as our cat Roxy deteriorated quickly and we had to put her to sleep. I also learned of the early death of a friend in Germany.

In late June, we adopted Pocket from a local shelter. She loves playing with paper balls and chasing a flashlight. In fact, she is quite addicted to both. Her 13-year old sister cat is not as enthused about her presence as we are but they get along unless Pocket plays too rough.
May the new year bring many successes--and cats on my lap.