With Critters, It’s Personal
Sunday morning’s dawn air emitted quiet. The slight fog in the cold temperature made some parts of the road slippery as Ande and I set out for our habitual morning walk. Finding patches of snow actually increased traction.
Quiet defined the morning. Birds sensed the opportunity. Nuthatches’ unique “chirp” is more like a little honk began the choral symphony. Crows’ caws added a syncopation in the distance. The unmistakable pecking of a Downy Woodpecker was surrounding by a flock of chirping Chickadees. As the woodpecker climbed up and down the trunk of a tree, the chickadees flitted around the branches, all searching out food.1 A flock of Juncos rounded out the avian opus.
Walking our favorite wooded path, I was pleased that we were the first since fresh snow fell, but of course, we weren’t really the first. Tracks of our dirty-pawed predecessors reminded us that so many critters waste no time hunting and foraging.
I saw this twice on one walk: a lone Downy Woodpecker in the midst of a flock of Chickadees. Perhaps it’s common behavior.
ah! quiet! walking in fresh snow and in the woods. Serene. I enjoyed this so much when I lived in rural Idaho.
I turned off my phone and modem on 12/24 and didn't turn them back until 2 days later. It was bliss. No pings, no texts, no emails, no calls. Just me and my dog. Reading, writing a letter, going through old letters from my parents, now gone. Taking walks. I enjoyed this uninterrupted peace so much that I plan to do it every month. On the evening of the 28th, I will turn off my phone and not turn it on until the morning of the 30th. Much needed respite and quiet for my soul.
A blessed new year to you, Jeanne!
Your vivid descriptions took me right into the woods with you and Ande, Jeanne. I heard the birds, quiet footfalls upon the snow, smelt the clean air. So perfect and serene.
I always enjoy pictures of Ande. Those of her cuddled up with her hedgehog are especially adorable. So cozy!
Wishing you and Ande a beautiful and joyful holiday season! Thanks for keeping these stories coming. ^.^