I had been working on a blog post for a while, and it was almost complete, when I completely lost the thread. I was frustrated that the direction and focus just disappeared. I was in the backyard filling the bird feeder and bird bath, pondering the post about patience (more on that another day). All sorts of random thoughts were bouncing around in my head, and I was feeling a tidge frustrated.
Then it came to me, suddenly I was aware of the chirping bird song that was going on in the yard. I would write a bit about my new bird friends. I have never really paid much attention to birds, but lately they have been making me so very happy. It's now part of the morning ritual before work to head out and top off their food, so they will have a full feeder for the day. When looking out the window, I often glimpse several little birds gathering at the bird bath, spraying a fine mist of water from their happy little bounces. Chubby little birds are flitting from the bird bath to the fence, to bare branches, to the ground, and then to the feeder. Almost non-stop, they are hopping to and fro. They look so joyful, and it never fails to put a smile on my face.
Honestly, I am not certain what types of birds they are. I suspect most are finches, and of course, there is the squawky stellar jay that is pushy to the smaller birds. Some small chunkster birds are so round and chubby, they look like they would fit perfectly in the palm of your hand. I did some searches and think that is what they are. But I may ask a neighbor who is a real 'twitcher' to see if she knows what they are. However, it really doesn't matter, as they are all so charming in their own way.
Our weather has been mild the past month or so, and as I sit here with the warm winter sun on me, the birds are mesmerizing. Recently, I told a friend that I know I am getting older, as the birds make me so tickled. There is something so peaceful about the birds, and I find that I can sit there with a cup of coffee and watch them for what seems like an eternity. In fact, sometimes I slip into a quiet and meditative mood, not really thinking of anything in particular, instead just being present. What a gift that is, with all the noise in the world. Recently, I listened to a podcast, and they discussed the soothing impact of bird song and its benefits on our mental outlook. I would have to concur. Maybe the birds are me slowing down and appreciating the small moments that make up the patchwork of a whole life. I hope you find a small slice of the simple to soothe your spirit.
Best-Sharon
