Red Shafted Northern Flicker

Web sites describe this a a medium sized woodpecker, but I would describe him as a large woodpecker. I looked out my kitchen window and he was sitting right there on the deck railing. I think these birds are striking and I enjoy it when they visit. While on the web sites, I read that they are seen here in greater number during Oct, Nov and Dec, so I look forward to more visits.

Today was a day of quietly curling up with a book I am studying in a small group. We have finished it this week and tomorrow we will meet to review what we personally got out of the book. Since I like to ponder these things, I have gone back and taken notes for our discussion. The greatest thing I have gained through this study is that all of life can be valued for what it has taught me about living this moment as the best person I can be. If I hold on to the past, harbor resentments or live with fear of the future, I will not be happy in this moment......and this moment is really all we have. The quotes I will probably remember are, 
""Fear and Judgment block a truly beautiful life; they cause suffering and decrease joy."   
"Ego does not want justice, it wants to prove guilt. It builds a case against others and keeps me in pain."
"Pain can be used for good OR it can destroy us. Move on, get over it."