I've Waited Many Years to Get This Close

We often see Sand Hill Cranes in the spring or fall during their migration, generally at several thousand feet up. 

 Imagine my surprise to see this family on the pond about 3 blocks from home!

 They are an elegant bird and very graceful.

 The whole family decided to pose on the shore.

 This is a reason to never be without a camera, even in your own back yard!