Between the Showers

 

I still don't understand why the bath. 

With showers throughout the day, followed by moments of brilliant sunshine, the pair of Canada geese occupying our second pasture must feel that cleanliness definitely is next to godliness.

I happened to be walking down the lane last evening when bath time came. 

There's a small depression out in that field which could also be called a mini wetland from the looks of the plants that grow there. 

I learned yesterday that the place apparently doubles as a bath tub.  

First, one goose stepped into the water from the pasture shore.  

Within seconds, I could see the elegant bird bobbing up and down in the water as its partner watched. 

It seemed to be a "take turns" sort of event, as the bobbing continued, with head and neck also dipping into the water. 

After about a minute, Goose No. 1 floated to the opposite shore (all of about three feet) stepped out and fluttered its wings several times before beginning a grooming touch-up session with its beak. 

At that very moment, Goose No. 2 stepped into the wetland and mimicked the bathing process.  

Again, after a minute of submersion and bobbing in the water, the second bather joined its partner on shore.

I continued to watch as the two stood grooming themselves for several minutes.  

So, after a day of rain, the pair had to be squeaky clean with their baths. 

Twas indeed a wet day yesterday, but we enjoyed several stunning sunshine breaks.

In late afternoon, when Bill said he was headed to Cocolalla Creek for fishing, I told him I was headed off to capture some of the brilliance of the sunshine breaks. 

Those were pleasant moments, as the trip along the north edge of the lake was filled with drama.  

A storm was brewing up over Sandpoint and Baldy Mountain, and when I arrived at Hope, the skies were blue. 

So, my timing was right.  I left the rain at home to stand on the shore of Lake Pend Oreille and watch the next rainstorm coming. 

By the time I arrived home, the clouds were probably emptying on Hope, and the earth was clean and spring colors were brilliant here at home. 

I also found it amazing how fast the grass turns green with these April showers. Seemed like the colors had intensified during my short absence.  

And, after last night's bathing show in the pasture, I know that we have very clean geese here. 

I wonder if they'll still take their daily bath tomorrow when the snow comes. 

Ahh, the variations, the drama and the scenes of Spring!

Happy Friday.