We're back

Well, we are back from our great trip to the central valley. Got there about 3 yesterday, stopped at a wildlife reserve where there were tons of ducks and swans--cinnamon teals, regular teals, widgens, buffleheads, pintails, etc. etc. Then we went to the crane reserve and had a fabulous hour there as the sun set. It was a gorgeous sunset that lasted a long time. As the reds, oranges, and purples came up in the sky they were reflected in the water. And the whole time, there were chevrons of sandhill cranes coming in for the night, and chevrons of ducks flying off to other places. We didn't see as many as Brian describes in his comment, but we must have seen a couple thousand. The best part is the amazing sounds they make--sort of a cross between a purr and a croak and a vibrato. We got up this morning to be there at sunrise to watch them fly off. Then we went for a walk at the wildlife center, checked out at the hotel, went to a mexican lunch and then went back to the wildlife center and walked a hike through the oakforest along the river, then went to one more place where there were cranes. It was really windy and cold all day today, though it was clear and pretty. Got home about 6:30 tonight.

We always feel so filled with the spirit and so peaceful and calm after this expedition.

Love to you all, Sandra