Its for the birds

Well, well, well - looksy who I found taking a dip in our little pond! They should be settled down by now, making/sitting on a nest. If, and when, they do, it wouldn't surprise me to find they have nested somewhere in our yard (since its now dogless). We found the beginnings of a bunny nest - right in the middle front yard! Yea, not anymore. I don't care if they are around, but come on! - nest somewhere less obvious. Am I going to have to post a "Rules of the Yard" sign?
Rule #1: No running by the pool.
Now, here is a picture that I have had a really hard time getting. These birds, Northern Flicker (woodpecker family) are very skittish, and even manage to see me inside the house. I just love the way the light hit the yellow on her tail, and the red head-band is always bright (click pics for larger view)
Here is a view of The Penthouse. Years ago, my cousin built an arch with pickets for me, and this house is at the top. This is the first year we have a family.
First picture is mamma coming home:

The next picture shows daddy coming home. Notice the little scraps of twigs to the left of the box? A house with balconies...
I wonder if the female is telling the male about "being at home all day with these eggs, and just needing to get away for a girls-night-out"?

I started my Photography 101 class last night. I do hope to get better - but have kinda realized that if you have a tripod and Photoshop, anyone can be a decent photographer.
note to self: buy a tripod. get photoshop.

P.S. Coming Soon: more pictures of Yard Decor Pollution!