A spectacular Barred Owl flew low and slow across a town road I was driving on, giving me that best look ever at that lovely bird. Wow!

Since this odd weather has me spending too much time inside, I've been pondering the meaning of that encounter.

The first reflection is that regardless of weather, I need to spend more time outside. I don't see the owl from my basement bunker. Even with the lousy mix of snow, rain, and very cold nights, spring is here with birds leading the way.

Photo by Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren