For the Birds

I grew up with hummingbirds that lived in the tree in the side yard. All summer long, we could hear the buzz of their wings as they zipped through the air near the front porch on their way to the feeder.

I long to see these beautiful creatures come and enjoy the sweet snack that I put out for them. But alas, the feeder went out in early spring and by late summer had not needed to be refilled. No one was interested in my sweet snack.

My hanging purple and white fuchsia made a resurgence in September with new blooms. It was at that time that I noticed the twitter and hum that I remember from my childhood. The hummingbirds were eating from the fuchsia! I grabbed the feeder and cleaning it out, providing a fresh syrup. Since then, I have enjoyed seeing this little bit of creation every day, 2 hummingbirds. With this recent "arctic blast" I have begun to worry that they might not make it, especially if the syrup in the feeder freezes! So each morning, I bring it into the kitchen and warm it up. I did see both hummingbirds the last two days, looking quite plump in fact. (I wish I could get a picture of them but they are just too quick!)

And while thinking of the birds and their needs during this weeks freeze, I let the kids create pine cone feeders, which are now hanging in various places in our yard.