My two sons (9 and 4) and I were traipsing along Cherry Island Trail at Lake Erie Metropark. It was a hot, humid day and they were nearing their limit of appreciation for nature. The older one in frustration asked me to stop taking so many photos. As we rounded the corner the lotus beds came into view. In awe, he tells me “NOW is the time to take photos!”

Some nearby birdwatchers pointed out a Black-Crowned Night Heron, explaining they’re not usually easy to spot. My boys loved feeling so fortunate to see a rare bird. They expressed remorse for their initial reluctance to to head out on the trails and even went so far as to admit that Mom had a good idea after all! -Erica