Quite the surprise

Up until now, the only eagles I've ever seen, let alone photographed, were in the Mount Lassen area, about three hours from home. This one here? This was about fifteen minutes from home. I was taking a short hike at one of the local spots and way off in the distance I saw a large bird perched in a tree. I just figured it was a hawk, which is mostly what I see around here. I was still quite a long distance away, so I pulled out my camera and zoomed way in to see what type of hawk it was. To my dismay, as my camera came into focus, I saw a white head and white tail - an eagle! Excitement hit me instantly and I'd be lying if I said there wasn't some astonished cursing that took place once I realized what it was. I was still too far away to get a clear photo, so I made my way in its direction and was able to sneak close enough to take this photo, and many others, before it decided I was too close for comfort and flew off. Such an incredible sighting. I'll never forget the first time I saw an eagle, and I'll certainly never forget the first time I saw an eagle in Sonoma. 

​"Instructions for living a life:
Pay attention.
Be astonished.
Tell about it."
-Mary Oliver