Nature's Gift

There is something incredibly uplifting about watching delight wash over your child's face when confronted with the beauty and wonder of nature.

Today we were visited by a beautiful Tawny Frogmouth. He was discovered by hubby perched on the clothesline when he went to hang the washing out (one of the perks of studying - I'm occasionally absolved of the mundane laundry tasks on weekends!). Calling Miss 9 to come and see him, her eyes widened with wonder and joy. Our new friend stayed all day, snoozing on the clothesline. At dusk, he began to stretch and flap a little and we thought that would be the end of his visit. Not so. He has remained with us throughout the evening, following us around - watching hubby and Miss 9 having their after-dinner swim, then peering in from the kitchen window sill while I cleared the dishes. He finally settled only inches from the glass door, sitting on an outdoor wicker chair, gazing at us with large, trusting eyes as we took advantage of this close-range viewing opportunity.

What a 'classroom' this little friend has inspired today - although a weekend, Miss 9 was busy investigating him, printing photos dad took to make a poster, researching his habitat and eating habits, inventing a suitable name for him (she settled on 'Spooky' due to his enormous, unblinking eyes and unwavering gaze). No textbook could have inspired such self-motivated learning, nor would it be discussed excitedly for days to come as I'm sure our new friend will be.

What a gift we have been given - both the affirmation of how blessed we are to have such a joyful, curious child and the reminder of what incredible creatures we share this world with.

Thanks, Spooky!