A highlight of spring in Istria is the swift return of swallows.

It is difficult to capture their movements on camera (especially on a slow phone), and still images can’t catch the beauty of their flight. But sitting and watching them cut through the air is enchanting.

I love to watch their poetic flights: the balletic turns; the dramatic dives, and controlled ascents; and the playful, teasing duets.

They are a lesson in grace and poise, and in clear forward thinking and good decision making.