It seemed fitting to take a walk in Freedom Park on the 4th of July. Freedom Park is a new park for Naples nestled within minutes from the beach, the airport, the zoo, and 5th Avenue. One half of the park has signage which identifies plants. The other half is strictly natural. A wonderful boardwalk weaves through both halves which makes it a pleasure for young and old to delight over all kinds of surprises.

Not long ago I was there and just happened to catch two raccoons foraging for their morning snack. From the boardwalk, about 8 feet above them, being no perceived threat and I was able to really watch how they use their little hands to search for a tasty morsel.

On the 4th of July I started my walk when it just started to drizzle. There was no one around but me and this big beautiful heron. I watched as he took long strides on this tiny legs...slowly...silently. Then whoosh! He snagged an enormous fish in a relatively tiny pond. I watch birds quite a bit and have yet to see this big a fish become dinner.

I hope you enjoy this experience and you'll come out to watch the birds and wildlife here soon yourself.