Backyard Birds and Challenges

The dark clouds and rain hung around for so many days that when the sun finally peeked through today, I took photos of almost everything in sight during one of my walks on campus.

It’s going to be a banner year for fire ants, I think. They'll definitely keep me out of the fields of Bluets I’d like to photograph right now.

There are a few bird photos left in my stash that I’ll share here. Most of them get sent to the recycle bin as they don’t satisfy me any longer. Whatever it was I had, I’ll get it back, I guess.

I loved this photo. It needed some editing, so I gave it a try. Can you tell it was taken through a dirty window during a rainstorm?

The White-throated Sparrows are still whistling their odd little tune. There are a dozen, so sweet.

I have many great birds at my house all year. I like catering to the Downys and Red-bellieds. When spring arrives, however, the dark and heavy mobs move in and defeat the nicest birds.

Last spring was a backyard bird nightmare here while I continued to top off the feeders every day, served a wide variety of the best bird lovin’ food. Who dominated and ate it all? Take a guess. I can name five species.

All birds go to heaven and have a right to eat and live. I’m OK with that concept... but not on my dime. If I’m a snob feeder, sue me.

Starting now, routines change. My feeders will be dry for a few days a week! I’ll save cash for my trip to West Virginnie!

The birds don’t need twenty pounds of black oil sunflower or safflower seed and ten pounds of nuts with all the trimmings every week… There are bugs and fruits out there. Plenty of it!

That rule will apply to me, too. No, I won’t eat bugs, but fruit for dinner is a good thing. Mr. Meat & Potato can have what he wants. I’ll even prepare it but pass on helpings.

I’ll be walking inside and outside and attempt a few sit-ups if I have any muscle left!

I’ve started walking hard and fast this week, inside the college building with my iPod.

I’m working through the pain of shin splints. It’s great.

I’ll lose some weight, hopefully...

No nicotine or cigs = extra pounds. Ugh. I’m facing yet another challenge.

The days are longer,

the sun will be shining,

and I shouldn't be sitting all evening.

So, I’ll be busy for a while.

When I hang the hummingbird feeders on Sunday,

I'll think of you.