Urban birding

A few weekends ago, I went to the store that is a few blocks from my house to get some ice cream. It was a sunny day and I took my camera just in case I saw something interesting.

I live in an urban area, but not so grey as the rest of the city. There are still some green patches and small parks to enjoy.

I was walking across one to get to the store when a yellow beauty caught my attention.


A beautiful Saffron Finch (Sicalis Flaveola) was posing for me. But then, a second one flew in!!

The new arrival sang for the other, but the result wasn't exactly what was expected...


- "Told you already, I don't date blondes!!"

- "P-p-p-pleeeease!!"


What do you think these birds are "talking" about??

Leave the dialogue you think suits best in the comments!

BTW, my ice cream was delicious ;)

IATB #91 @ From the Faraway, Nearby

Tim, blogging From the Faraway, Nearby is now hosting IATB # 91.

I've been following his blog for a while. He takes really amazing photographs, but what is great about him is his heart. He's got such a sensibility and caring for all creatures in the world - flora, fauna, human - that you can just see it in his work.

I want to thank him for including me in this edition and for his kind words and constant support.

Muchas gracias Tim, ¡espero verte pronto por aquí!

Stairway to heaven and a celebration of life

I never expected this would be my first post of the year. My uncle passed away on January 1st. Unexpected. Hard to believe.

Today we went to the Cemetery's Crematory to fulfill his wishes. It was such a hot and sunny day. My dear cousins, Victor (25) and Gonzalo (19) were trying not to cry while people crowded around them to give their respects. I could tell they both wanted to get out of there... I wanted to.

We were born into Catholic families, so we first walked into the Chapel. Behind the Altar there was a sculpture. I did some research when I got home and the page I found says it is "an abstract sculpture of an angel". What I saw was totally different.

I saw a giant hummingbird!! The next picture doesn't really show it. You can see the waterfall behind the huge window and then the sculpture. To the right I see the long bill and to the left, a long tail. I think I'm thinking of birds way too much.


At one point, we took a walk while we waited for the process to be completed. What we found helped ease the sorrow.


Nature sorrounding us was perfect to find some peace, and the Amazilia Amazilia dancing around us made us smile for a minute.

I liked the place. Instead of a creepy dark building, it was a green open space. Catholics, as many other beliefs, believe in life after death. This was, I believe, a celebration of life. A reminder that life goes on, and it can be beautiful even in the worst moments.


Rest in peace. Watch over us now.

Descansa en paz.