Inside the Chestnut

[akirlu]

There's an old Seattle joke:

Q. What is the term for the first sunny day after two days of rain?
A. "Monday"

Happy Monday.

I got a window seat on the right side of the bus today. I snag one when I can because that gives the best bird watching across Lake Washington. The 520 is a floating bridge for much of its span, which means in the right lane you're traveling low quite close to the surface of the lake. Lately, I've been taking an interest in the incredible variety of waterfowl that populate the lake. As an added bonus, the eights were out, and because the wind was brisk and southerly they were very close, into the lea of the bridge where the water is still smooth. Two UW rowing crews pulling hard in beautiful unison flew by, just below us. Almost close enough to touch. I don't know quite why my heart rises every time I see them, but it does. In their wake a very handsome duck (creams and tans, no idea what it was) looped back in for a landing, looking put out at the disturbance. Also spotted two loons (always single), several rafts of coots and buffleheads (always in groups), and a few cormorants (switch). Alas, no great blue herons today.

As I got off the bus, the driver said, "Have a good day, kid." Kid! I guess it's my new way of walking.