Kristen Bruno McClusky

I used to joke that my kids should start a falconry club to make themselves unique college applicants. Of course they needed no such thing. It was really *me* who was always fascinated by these creatures. And owls! When in Vermont I nearly drive off the roads searching for them in the trees. So I booked a stay at a castle as an anniversary surprise for Mark--when we were in Ireland a couple weeks back. They had a falconer (a few, in fact), as I guess most well-appointed castles do? The one we spent an afternoon with, Jack, I'd cast in a movie if I was in that business. (Note to Mark: We still need to tip him.) Anyway, what a soul-stirring afternoon. I'd like to fill my empty nest with adorable owls, but I guess the thing about magical beings (one's children included) is that even when you want to keep them close you need to let them be free.