In honor of sister Katie

/ Tracy Abell

One year ago today, my oldest sibling died at home after a battle with cancer. Katie is gone but far from forgotten. As I told one of her sons this morning, thoughts of my sister/his mother pop into my head multiple times a day, at random times such as when I put on mascara or add broccoli to my smoothie or make my weak coffee that she always scoffed at as she drank what can only be described as rocket fuel disguised as coffee. I think of her every single time I spot the always delightful California Quails in my neighborhood. Honestly, Katie comes to mind during most every wildlife encounter I experience. We shared a love for nature.

I photographed this harbor seal last week and told myself it was maybe the same one that swam past me last September 23rd where I sat on a rock, watching the waves and crying after learning Katie had finally let go.

September 16, 2026

That day, the seal turned while swimming past and looked directly at me which felt like a message from my sister and brought me comfort. As did last week’s identification of this new-to-me Savannah Sparrow via the yellow streak on the head.

September 17, 2026.  Ediz Hook

Why? Because Katie loved and was knowledgeable about birds, and would’ve been happy I’d expanded my knowledge base. Lucky for me, there are many, many birds I’ve never experienced which means she’ll be cheering me on for years to come.

13 thoughts on “In honor of sister Katie”

What say you?