In our backyard we have a huge fig tree, and within its branches we had a resident Cardinal. You could not miss him and his magnificent red hue. So I looked the birds up and learned that some people believe that angels are near when you see one, or that they are a good omen. Our guy stuck around for a few years, but this past year I have not seen him. Alas their lifespan, it turns out, is only about 3 years. So “Taking Off” is my tribute to the bird that liked our backyard as much as we do. I always felt it was such a treat to see him.