A good turkey of a day

Although chilly, it was a beautiful sunny day as Emma and I emerged from the rig for her first outs.  Since wild turkeys are so abundant on the refuge, I decided we should go for a ride so I could get a picture of this bird on its most prominent day on the calendar.  I’ve seen turkeys everyday I’ve been out on the refuge, so I figured it would be a piece of cake to find them.

Turkey, Gobler, male

You know what they say about the best laid plans…  Not a turkey was to be found this morning.  So, I’m including this stunning photo that I posted last year from the Texas Parks and Wildlife site. 

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Since the refuge was closed for the holiday, we were able to drive about knowing we were the only ones on the wildlife drive today.  We took an hour and a half to do the eight miles, and lingered at favorite spots enjoying the peace and quiet.

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The deep blue skies, reddish orange of the cypress trees, greens of the pines, and yellows from the deciduous trees presented a beautiful palette  of color to appreciate.  I took time to honor this day of Thanksgiving, and marveled at nature’s gifts that I find all around me.  I continue to remain thankful for the life I am allowed to live.

71 Okefenokee NWR 2012-1315

Along about 2:00, all of us gathered in the Volunteer Village double-wide trailer for a traditional feast of turkey and all the trimmings.  Fellow volunteers Barb and Barry did most of the work in providing our repast, and I really appreciate all of their work.  It was a delicious meal! 

Afterwards, the men watched football while the women kibitzed.  Near the end of the game we all decided to watch a DVD up in the auditorium of the Visitors Center.  There is a big screen and surround sound that is like being in a movie theater.  Barb’s grandson had a part in the movie, so that added interest to the show.  Well, it was a movie about an infection that was spreading worldwide and killing people including the grandson.  (I can’t remember the name of the movie)  I only lasted about twenty minutes into it, and had to leave.  It was a little too graphic for me.  Sick smile Guess I’m just  ‘The Waltons’ type of movie watcher. 

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While I didn’t find a wild turkey that survived to live another day, I was able to find the ‘bluebird of happiness’.  Winking smile  Either would have been appropriate for this Thanksgiving Day…

Thanks for stopping by… talk to you later,  Judy

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