We walk a lot as a family. Part of the reason is we have an energetic child and it's a great way for him to exert some of that energy, but we also just like being outside. My favorite walk is in our neighborhood and surrounding woods because it doesn't require driving anywhere and it's a familiar routine. However, I learned how something familiar can still deliver surprises.

A few days ago we took an early evening walk in the woods, with Kellan leading the way on his balance bike. My husband Erik got into birding a few of years ago and now it seems he never goes on any outing without his binoculars. I sometimes tease him about this, but I can appreciate why people become birders. Not only are birds beautiful, but it gives you new perspective on where you are. Anyway, we don't normally see anything out of the ordinary in our own woods, but we both noticed a sound at the same time. It sounded like hooting. Then we heard it again. Yes, it definitely sounded like an owl.