I made myself go out on a walk again this past Sunday. It took a bit of effort to get going and I ended up at the same park as the previous week. However, it’s large enough that I had plenty of new spaces to walk. I’m so glad I went because I finally saw one of my bucket list birds.
Who? Me?
Oh no, not you silly little sparrow!
This one, right here. Photos aren’t great but I have to share anyway.
Pileated Woodpecker 
We are barely on the edge of their range here but they have them in the area where my husband hunts as well as in Arkansas. I spent lots of time searching to see one when we went on our Arkansas trip. I did hear them a few times. Alas, never spotted any.
And then, just in my own neck of the woods (well, a little 15ish minute if that drive south to the park) and my wish came true! 
I had just walked a little further past the bridge where I saw the cedar waxwings last week (I was actually looking for them) and stopped to look up into the tree line. Funny thing, it was sort of a long week and I was having a bit of a silent conversation with God about how I could use a “win.” And then, this magnificent creature flew and landed there for much too brief of a moment before flying all the way to the other side of the park.
Feeling a little extra grateful this Thanksgiving week.
You can read a bit more about pileated woodpeckers here if you’re interested.
Great nature find, Jean! I’ve seen pilated woodpeckers on three different occasions and each sighting was very special. So glad you were able to add one to your life bird list! I love it when God gives us little gifts like that when we need it the most and least expect it. Have an absolutely lovely Thanksgiving tomorrow! <3
Thank you! I’m going to have to go back out there after talking with my brother yesterday. He said he sees those and bluebirds down the path I went last time. Hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving yesterday!