in these parts come in the form of the resident squirrel and blue jays anxiously awaiting breakfast in the backyard. Often I either throw peanuts to the blue jays near the patio window or head out in my robe to hand over the first peanut of the day to the squirrel who snags it from me when I proffer it, as I also go out to put out sunflower seeds, much-appreciated by the sparrows, juncos, nuthatches, finches, and other small birds. The doling out is inevitably followed by hearty appreciation, relief, and enjoyment by one and all.
I started feedings back in 2006 thereabouts to increase my connection with Nature and to fill the gap left by the passing of our 18 year-old beloved, black female miniature poodle in 2005. I have since learned much about these creatures–their similarities to humans, reciprocally–and they have provided much engagement and entertainment, especially through the pandemic era and afterward.
For money-minded types, this costs me something like $125 a year (even with twice-daily feedings–hint: break up the peanuts before feeding), which is small potatoes given the rewards, benefits, and pleasures for having and engaging with Nature, literally, just outside the family room. Among the purposes in my life, these daily connections remain basic and fundamental to a more complete mode of living at age 74. The best $125 I have ever spent for a gift that truly keeps on giving.
Bird Man of Mil Woods
(Starting each day, providing breakfast for my aery brethren, regardless of weather….)
“One touch of nature makes the whole world kin.”–William Shakespeare, Troilus and Cressida
Even Better
(Restocking the bird tray with Grandpa; passing on a love of Nature to family)
Further Afield
(Feeding chickadees and nuthatches by hand in Laurier Park on a fall morning)