Adventure 654: Spring Shakedown/Sandhill Cranes

Our buddy, Lis Ulmen, who after spending the Covid winter in California, suggested we meet at Scooteney Reservoir to ogle at the Sand Cranes who migrate through central Washington this time of year. We eagerly agreed, not just because it was a good excuse to get Frac out of her winter petticoats, but also it gave us a chance to see our friend. We'd thought it would be easy. Alas, we encountered a SNAFU. Last year, due to Covid restrictions, we winterized Frac early. Unbeknownst to us, the dealer unhooked a hose under the sink (One that is not normally unhooked). When I went to recharge the water system, the loose hose junction sprayed water all over the underside of the kitchen sink. Naturally, that water traveled to the heating unit so that when we turned on the furnace, the circuit board shorted out. Of course, when I called the dealer, they were backed up with work orders. Sadly, we called Liz to tell her of our misfortune and that we wouldn't be able to meet her. But for some reason, the dealer found time to look at our problem (Perhaps because of their winterizing error). At any rate, we were back in business. We had a pleasant drive to the reservoir, a joyous reunion with Liz, and a uplifting view of the natural wonder of the migrating Sand Cranes. We also enjoyed a fine dinner, a fine breakfast, a pleasant overnight, and the comforting notion that Frac is now ready for the season. Our plan is to take quick one or two night jaunts in our immediate area this spring, God willing hit the road for a long winter jaunt next year. But in this present moment,  we can once again report that life is good, especially today.

At dawn, driven by some internal signal, the birds (over a thousand strong) lift in unison into the air on their way to a day of foraging in the wheat stubble.

In the evening groups of birds ranging from two to hundreds return where they stand together in knee deep water for the night.

They return from all four points of the compass.

The reservoir campground isn't open this time of year, so we just settle somewhere in the parking lot.

This is the morning shot of the birds lifting, but most of the birds can't be seen in this shot.

This is a shot of one of the larger groups returning home for the evening.

Another shot of the morning lift.

Picture of a picture of a picture.

Good night sweet birds.

A joyful reunion.