I watched, as the little bird struggled for traction on the layer of ice, hovering above the water. There I sat, sitting on the river’s edge, shivering from the cold. Meanwhile, this incredible little bird, balancing on his icy platform, would repeatedly dive into the frigid water only to emerge and repeat the astounding feat.

American Dippers are a small species of song bird that eat small fish and aquatic insects. In order to find their food, they dive into rivers, streams and creeks, usually emerging with a small morsel in tow. It’s always amazing watching these little birds, water just seems to glide off their feathers and the cold never appears to reach them.

Sitting on that river’s edge, I took a moment to gaze around me and marvel at just how amazing nature is and ponder on how grateful I am for these moments I cherish so much.