Excitement fills the swamp this morning because something magical is about to happen.
A sandhill crane chick has broken through its shell, its tiny beak poking out as it takes in the world for the very first time.
Its sibling, shaking with anticipation, curiously watches the egg.
As the egg cracks and falls away, Mom takes a closer look at her new chick.
Dad stands guard, making sure there are no predators in the vicinity, but curiosity has captivated the other colt. It wants to see what all the fuss is about, so it climbs into the nest for a closer look.
All of the excitement has captured Dad’s attention too, but he is not quite ready to greet the newborn.
With the entire family gathered around the nest, the newborn desperately tries to lift its head for the very first time.
Dad watches from above and finally decides it is time to lean in and take a closer look.
Surrounded by its family, the freshly hatched colt peeks out at the world beyond the shell.
It is cause for celebration, and both parents announce their newborn’s arrival.
The beauty of life. Who can deny its splendor?
Bonfire Kindled 🔥
It was our 1st wedding anniversary earlier this month, so for a gift I made my husband a layered paper cutout of the bonfire from Dark Souls!
@KanizoArt Ty again Dani :D loved all the ideas going into this after that mishmash of a concept XD and definitely think I need a bunch of pillows now too, would be a super relaxing place to be
@Yaseiranryu Ty Ran! So fun how this turned out and definitely happy to have bumped this up more from just that first sketch age ago 🤣. It was an instant yes when I saw the sketch (others were very neat too). Very dynamic and fun with the light playing through too🎉