Niall was up and out riding his bike early yesterday- early enough to see a large owl on the roof of a house in the neighborhood. He spent nearly 30 minutes watching it and coming back and forth with reports. I took the camera and rode with him to see it briefly before it flew away- no time for photos. We have done a bit of research and think it must have been a Great Horned Owl based on its size and likelihood of living in this area. Amazing.
I also read a bit about the mythology and folklore of owls around the world and throughout history. The ideas vary widely.
Our day seemed blessed as a result of seeing such a fascinating animal. I felt a sense of reverence and wonder. When asked how he felt about seeing it, Niall said, " I felt excited and happy and, like, whoaaaaa! And I felt tired from riding up the hill so many times to keep seeing it!"