It was zero when I took Ginger out yesterday – a pretty chilly end to the year. She had a grooming appointment and so I had an hour or two to study Spanish in the car. I did have my new camera with me just in case.

I was driving to a spot to finish a coffee. On a side street, I spotted a hawk perched. It was being harassed by crows. The camera case was tangled up in the back seat. Not daring to open the door and flush the bird, I somehow retrieved the camera.

I got a little closer and with freezing fingers, took a few shots. I think it was a Cooper’s Hawk but could be convinced otherwise. In any case, it was a neat finish to the birding year and got me psyched for 2026.

Ginger would rather lay on the couch rather than tromp through these super cold winter treks.

I get it. Happy New Year