Red-tail...Number Fifteen

I went out with low expectations, only to be pleasantly surprised when this red-tailed hawk flew in lazy circles high above our house.  This counts as a yard bird for me, the 15th photographed and the 28th in total, for this year.  Not a great photo - the hawk was just way too high for a clear shot, but you can see the namesake reddish tail and the belly-band that is diagnostic for this large raptors.

Red-tailed hawks are commonly found throughout N. America and into Mexico.  They are one of our larger hawks and females (being larger than males) are sometimes mistaken for eagles (until an eagle comes along, and then all doubt is removed.)  We have them here all year and they can often be seen riding the thermals, as this one was doing.

We had our first care-meeting today with the staff of the retirement home where my MIL is now living.  We came away feeling very good about the care she is receiving, and the compassion of the staff.  In just a few short days, they are already getting to know her and understanding how to divert her when she gets confused.  Her doctor is already making some changes in medication, and is referring her to several specialists.  This all confirms our belief that we've picked the right place for her.  She was napping when I looked in on her after the meeting, but I  plan to stop by for a quick visit after I finish this.

Thank you for the many kind words, especially from those of you who've gone through similar transitions with loved ones.  Just knowing that we aren't alone in this journey is such a help.

xo
Debbi