Meeting by the Castle

Of all the coastal birds, I think the Great Blue Heron commands the most admiration. Dressed as a reigning monarch, this bird walks confidently among "its people" on the shore.

Shortly after dawn, I met this handsome fellow right outside his castle. We talked as I drank coffee, and we strolled for almost a mile. It's true—I did most of the talking. But the heron was a great listener. Mostly, I praised his appearance and paid tribute to his regal personality. The bird took all of my words in elegant stride as he scanned the water's edge for minnows.