60 years old - Does anything change?

The 'Early Birder' reached an apparent milestone today - 60 years old but do I feel any different and will anything change?

Well firstly I don't feel any different and age is not something I consciously think about except when the occasional aches & pains take longer to subside. I'm thankful that my change of work and lifestyle some 12 years ago has kept me reasonably fit and healthy. Whilst I'd like to retire that is not a viable option just yet but when it is I will have plenty of things to keep me occupied.....not least will be more time for wildlife watching.

So no 'formal' birding to day as we visited my parents for a quiet meal and to catch up on family gossip including an update on their garden visitors.

I know you are wondering what did I get for my birthday? Well lots of cards from the family including some contributions towards the cost of the new camera and lenses that I recently purchased - an enjoyable surprise and all very much appreciated. Hopefully Anita will help me make some personalised 'thank-you' cards!

Anita presented me with an application form for a 'Freedom Pass' so I will be able to travel FREE on buses & trains, subject to certain criteria - Great news.

I also received an unexpected gift from David, a work colleague and co-leader of bird walks at work, of a photograph taken of Waxwings, one of my all time favourites. David & I have been fortunate in seeing Waxwings in the gardens at RHS Wisley on two seperate occasions in previous 'intruptive' years and we are still hoping that they may visit again this year but berry stocks are thin on the ground so it may not happen. Anyway I'll always have this picture as a reminder.