My birthday passed quietly last month. Mom (a.k.a. Granny Gadget) honored it (as she did last year) with a cute little metal owl.

Last year’s pair resides by the front door welcoming visitors.

This new one I put up on the post at the end of our drive over the weekend.

As I left for work this morning and cruised passed the post, a Barred Owl (a real one!) was perched atop this very pole, taking off in flight at my appearance. The expression on the inanimate owl mirrored mine. Without pausing to put the car in park, I hopped out with my camera hoping to get a picture. By the time I’d scrambled back into the car to put it in park, the owl had disappeared into the woods. That’s twice I’ve spotted a Hoot Owl here at Downeast Thunder Farm and no picture. I may have to set up my wildlife camera across from the post to see if he returns.

Picture or no picture, the sighting made my day as do these colorful little owls when I return home. Thanks, Mom!