There’s an awkward feeling while I tend to my friends’ property near Mindo Ecuador while I think about the people not too far away on the coast as they try to pick up the pieces of their lives and move forward. I worry about their drinking water and a fresh supply of food and of a dry place to sleep at night – and mosquito-free as well. I think about the children, and how they must tremble when another after shock rolls thru the earth. I drink in the visual beauty that surrounds me as my heart aches for those that I love. I wish I could offer comfort and give them silent strength just by being near. The birds seem to be more abundant, or perhaps my focus is more intense on noticing my surroundings and not taking them for granted.
What follows are a few favorites of the 110 birds I’ve spotted on the property. How I wish I could send some of that beauty to help ease their pain.
Scaled Fruiteater? A first for me, and it flitted from branch to branch a few feet away from where I stood-froze and admired its unique patterns of color.
White-throated Crake — There were two foraging in the mid-morning sunlight..
Strong-billed Woodcreeper – a lovely bird!
The Beryl-spangled Tanager sports unique colors and patterns!
Pygmy Tyrant – This bird paused briefly only a few feet away from where I was working! Seconds later it flew away.
Not sure on this one…
The clouds turn on their sprinklers throughout the day, and the rain seems to trigger more feeding activiity. The next ones, photographed against bright skies with sprinkles, are not too clear, but a poor image helps me with identification.
Flame-faced tanager
Golden Tanager
Most of these birds stay very near the house that overlooks the pond.
In front of the house is a trail that goes all the way around the pond. There are surprises daily!
The distant landscape bears its scars from the rainy season.
Garbed in coordinating colors to match the foliage, the following resident hopes that you might find beauty in your surroundings this week.
Crimson-rumped Toucanet
Linda over at The Task at Hand wove a beautiful story, Rising, Falling and Rising Again. Put aside your present reading material and enjoy her mastery of words and the art of telling a good story. Hers aren’t just happy little stories; they have depth and soul. Thanks, Linda, and thanks also for including the link to the Jama earthquake video..
Have a good week, everyone. Z
Zeebra Designs & Destinations 
I can imagine how your heart aches and that you feel so helpless! Perhaps you get your chance to do something actively!
Beautiful. Thanks for all that you do.
You have a good and sensitive heart, I know. Everything you write and all your pictures show…hope you can help as much as you want and can.
Lovely! I used to think all birds looked alike until my birding wife opened my eyes. There is so much beauty in those creatures!
you are right.. when that black and white solitaire landed briefly overhead, i did a triple take.. with each day it was less bashful….those tanagers come in so many colors, it’s amazing to watch when a tree is loaded with six or more species… your wife would love birdwatching here!
She would go crazy!
My thoughts are with you, and I understand your feeling of pain, helplessness and heartache, Lisa. Please stay strong, and stay safe. xoxo
Another beautiful post with beautiful photos as always Z !!
Hugs, BB
I’m sorry you can’t send them the beauty of your images and words, but thanks for sharing it with us.
janet
Hi Lisa!
It’s good to know you’re okay. Here we are fine too, although Olga’s house has been lost and my office has had to move 😥
Tienes razón, acá sucede lo mismo… es como si los pájaros del bosque húmedo de las 6:30 de la tarde se hubieran mudado a las 6:30 de la mañana, junto a la ventana.
Birds seem to be more, o simplemente suenan mejor…
Muy hermosa tu visión “polar” de las cosas.
I hope the process of recovery is going well for all those who were affected by the quake. I love your photos, especially the shot of the house and pond, what a gorgeous setting.
Hey Lees! I know you feel helpless right now and are sad you can’t make it back to the coast to help. I’m sure they miss having your smile and sweet personality make their day. I’m thinking of you, KK
Hey Lisa, still thinking about you and the sadness that surrounds you, and yet you live in a place of such beauty. hanks for sharing your pictures.
thank you for sharing the beauty that the Lord has blessed us with. Needed to be reminded that there still is beauty here in Ecuador and not just death and destruction. Our hearts go out to all people in the villages and cities that have suffered so much. We are so blessed here in San Clemente. Hugs amiga
My heart pains for the people of your sweet little coastal town, & I think of them daily. I am so glad you were in the mountains & away from the earthquake. I love your post, & I am grateful for all the blessings I am given as well. There are many, & I don’t take them for granted. Stay safe, blessing to you all. K
thank you karen.. yes, this would make your heart ache, we don’t want anyone to suffer… your loved ones surely treasure you!