I was a little mystified by the fact that just three weeks ago this mother woodpecker and baby were still hanging around the house. I had tried to take a photo of them a couple of times before this but never got a clear shot. This time they both posed perfectly for the picture. Well, the mother did but from the look of the baby, it’s obvious that he had a need. (Hmmmm sort of reminds me of Cocoa—always in need of food, a treat, a walk, a hug . . . . like most of us. Smile. )

I remember walking up to the end of the Dover Hill trail and sitting down on a wooden bench overlooking this scene and thinking how beautiful and quiet it was. No noise, no fuss, no pressure (for the moment) to do anything but be thankful for the view. The only sound I heard was the gentle baying of nearby sheep.

One of the greatest privileges we have as Americans is the opportunity to vote. Cocoa Joy and friends were up early and did what thousands across this great country will do today—they voted. Don’t let long lines discourage you. And if you need a little help (like these guys did), just ask. The most important thing is for you to vote no matter how long it takes.