[MandiesMom]

Uggghhh!!! Was just out back with the pups. I'm always on the look out. Mandie had on her orange vest. It was time for us to go in, so I went to the back door to call them (at all other times, I am IN the yard around and on top of Mandie). Mandie was right by the house but still in the yard (maybe a foot away from the stoop).

I look towards her again to call her and Shel and I see this HUGE SHADOW. Look up and there it is. SUPER LOW...like lower than the tree tops but higher than the roof.

I ran out and waved my arms and yelled at it - which of course made Mandie think it was a game so she was playing "keep away" with herself from me. Luckily, Shelby came running to play too and he saw the hawk and went nuts barking at it. I said the magic word "Treat!" and was able to rally the girl inside.

She is now happily and unknowingly eating her carrot stick.

Again, I think they are beautiful birds..I just hate being scared in my own backyard.

And, am thinking, they are wise the vest now......