Black and White Warblers rarely make an appearance in my backyard, so it was a sweet surprise when one stopped by the other day – especially since I had my camera handy.

This beauty made a beeline for the edge of the fountain…

…and only paused a moment before hopping in and splashing about.

I think she looks so pretty with her feathers poofed. You can tell this one’s a gal because her throat patch is white instead of black.

I thought the photo session was finished when she flew up into the Japanese Maple tree, but it turns out she was just taking a brief bathing break before returning for round two.

Once again, she set about soaking and splashing and looking plain stunning.

And when her bath had reached its end, she bid the fountain farewell and flew off to dry her feathers in a sunny spot.

Ahh…sweet surprises and simple pleasures add so much joy to life!