Ideas For Gardens

Hi, I found this article about a garden pool or pond, and wondered if you would be interested. Take a look.

"Garden ponds add an exotic note and peaceful ambience to your landscaping

Dressing up an existing garden in more unusual ways takes a little innovation and sometimes, plenty of money and professional help. However, there's one garden element which can make a dramatic difference, which you can do yourself with just a little effort and not much expense. Garden ponds add a peaceful little getaway spot right in your own backyard. With a proper selection of water plants to populate your pond, you can have a little exotica as well.

It's important to scope out the best location and lay out the approximate size. For example, if you intend to have your garden pond serve as a spot to relax on a garden chair, work out your layout on paper or the PC so there's plenty of room for your chairs, a little bistro table for morning coffee, or whatever you intend.

You can buy the garden pond forms at any nursery and most big home improvement centers. These forms are lightweight plastic, usually black and available in a variety of sizes and shapes, made to lend a natural look with an irregular, but pleasing shape. These are relatively inexpensive. You simply dig your hole of sufficient size, install the pond form and fill in around the edges with dirt. Some manufacturers recommend black plastic sheeting as edging.

You can also easily make your own custom garden pond. Dig a hole to the desired depth and shape with a regular garden spade. Rather than dig your pond at a uniform depth, make the sides slope like a natural pond. This not only looks more realistic, but also allows you to plant water plants around the edges, enhancing the effect. Layer the bottom of your pond-to-be with gravel, and pour in cement, using a trowel to spread the cement around the bottom and edges. Allow the cement to cure. You can then paint the cement to suit your taste.

If you want your garden pond to be inhabited with fish, consult your nursery on which types of fish are best suited to your situation. Koi ponds are quite popular, but you'll need a larger size pond. You'll also need a water filtration system to provide oxygen and avoid rapid algae growth.

If plants are what you fancy, plan your plantings carefully before you begin. Here again, your nurseryman can help with suggestions on number and types of plants and ornamental grasses. There are also water plants which root at the bottom of the garden pond and produce flowers which float on the surface.

These man-made ponds need minimal maintenance, well worth the effort when compared with the added enjoyment you'll derive. Best of all, installing a garden pond, complete with its occupants, requires no more than a weekend's worth of effort."

My Garden Remains Quiet But For One Charming Friend

The birds have gone for a little while now−whether South or Southwest, or wherever, because Fall is here and leaves fall freely.

One little charmer has remained−the Black-Capped Chickadee. Whenever I go outside, he chatters away. I remember when we used to walk in the woods and the Chickadees followed us on the bushes, hopping along, chattering away.

It seems not so long ago when three young Robins vied for the last of the chokecherries on the tree outside my den window. I managed a poor photo of the youngest, without his red breast yet, because he was intrigued by why I was staring at him. The other two, with red breasts, were more wary of me.

They have all gone, but for the Chickadees, and a few others of the winter birds that remain. They will come around when  the feeders are filled. Soon I will put out the small feeder for the little ones−my friends, the Chickadees and some Sparrows, who do not go far. The big feeder will be filled when I can get a friend to set it up. It needed a thorough cleaning. It is early days yet, but I hear birds occasionally in the high trees. It is strangely quiet, however, except for the Blue Jays..

How charming the little ones are, but I am pleased to know they will be near right through Fall and Winter.

Look Who is Back! The Birds Are Returning to Their Haunts

Look Who is Back! The Birds Are Returning to Their Haunts

The weather has turned a startling warm here. I went outside this morning to sweep off my front walk as a Robin pecked for a worm in my neighbor's front yard.

I went out back to open the screens a bit for warmth to come in, and to sweep the porch. Two Robins emerged from my large pine tree. They were very interested in each other--the male more so, the female less. I interrupted. They were unafraid of me, but they scurried away a little, the female to the neighboring yard, the male dropping down to the yard behind the house. Yes, it is Spring, and that time again.

The Geese have been settled in for several weeks, and the Crows squawk about. Today, a Blue Jay ate on the small feeder. The Blackbirds have returned also, so I will not longer fill the large feeder. At this moment a Blackbird is 'going at' my small feeder, and as around six birds come at a time, the feeder will soon be empty. Since there are thousands in the area when they return (I have seen them in trees in the fields above this area) I do not feel badly in denying them.

The snow is almost gone. Spring is truly in the air. I love it. I'm glad to have you back, Spring!

Have You Ever Seen a Butterfly Bird?

I had a most striking experience one day some years ago, while out walking with a young friend. We had walked almost a mile to a small pond we always used as a stopping off point on long walks, or when skiing. My friend and I sat resting on one of the large stones surrounding the pond enjoying the quiet, listening to the birds. The dogs lay quietly beside us. During one of the lulls, we noticed a small bird flitting about with an unusual pattern of flight. His flight reminded us of a butterfly. Bright orange on his wings and tail feathers struck us as beautiful. Otherwise he had a black head and back, with a white tummy. When we arrived home, of course we went for the Bird book by Roger Tory Peterson. Sure enough there was our bird. He was a small, 4 1/2 to 5 1/2" Warbler, a Redstart. Officially, Peterson calls him an American Redstart, (Setophaga rusticilla) "The Redstart is one of the most butterfly-like birds. It is constantly flitting about, drooping its wings and spreading fanwise its tail." This was the male. In the female, the orange is replaced by a bright yellow. We did not see her. Audubon has a great book as well, but I always turned to Peterson first. This was exciting. We had no need for field glasses; he was that close to us. Such experiences make bird watching a joy. Perhaps you have seen a similar spectacular bird. Nature charms. A friend in the Eastern Townships, south of here, saw in her wood, a Pileated Woodpecker, the largest of the woodpeckers. I always seem to miss the most spectacular birds. That is why I fill my birdhouses--in case someone of note comes by. When I had time to sit out in my garden--I never seem to these days--I used to watch the Hummingbirds flit about by me, drinking from the red preparation I had mixed for them in their special feeder. My brilliant red geraniums attracted them also. It is fun to watch colorful and fascinating birds. The "butterfly" Redstart was a bright gem on that particular day.

Puppies Anyone? Breeding Versus Shelters

One of the most moving sights I have enjoyed is that of newborn puppies drinking their mother's milk. They latch on to the teat, arch their little backs, push down on their hind legs, grab their mother's breast, and begin the push, pull rhythm on the teats. This has never failed to move me. The mothers do not seem to mind. I said newborns, because once the little ones develop teeth, for the mothers, it is a different story. How each mother handles it is unique.No doubt the sight of newborns feeding would be a joy to all breeders of their favorite animals. In my case, it was the breeding of Shetland Sheepdog bitches. My experience is small; there are many breeders out there with a vast amount of knowledge and experience in that particular area.I support breeders who are wise in their business practices. Those I have known are responsible members of their communities--as they wish their dogs to be. There is a lot to be said, however, for the many animals already in shelters who need homes. More and more I have come to believe their needs must be addressed. The fault, I believe, lies with irresponsible citizens, who get dogs without a long-term plan in caring for them. Thus, helpless animals are thrust upon society's resources. It was partly these irresponsible people who turned me off breeding. One cannot be in control of where puppies go. One needs the wisdom of Solomon to read people, and I did not have it.Support good breeders, by all means, but take a look in at the shelters. You may just find the love of your life there.There are many animal shelters, even ones specific to a breed. I know of two shelters south and east of me, where abandoned animals of all stripes are taken in. These places are not hard to find, nor are the abandoned animals in registered sites, where the kill rate is alarming. As one shelter lady said to me, when I rescued some abandoned feral cats in my area, 'Feed them; they are God's creatures.' She even offered to give me food. No one is supporting her financially. Here is another place we can help. The goodness of the heart does not fill the stomachs of these many dogs, cats, etc. Wild animals belong in the wild, but domestic animals do not.I hope we can do our part to support animals wherever there is a need. Rescue an abandoned dog or cat, rather than purchase it from a shop or puppy mill.

Raccoons and Their Supposed Invasions into My Roof

I need to bring you up to date on my Raccoons. I wrote questioning whether Raccoons had invaded my attic. Friends came to check. One was a young construction worker who gladly scrambled up onto my roof, the other a close friend who has rebuilt his house. They looked, and looked, and looked, and found no access. No hole was large enough to allow a Raccoon to enter.All very well, said I, but they were there. I heard them above my head, scrambling and vociferating. I know those sounds from the time Raccoons lived for some months under my house. The men looked at me a little strangely. It was a puzzle. No access. I did not doubt what I heard, and was a little nervous about their return. If they came looking for a breeding area the female was already pregnant. That meant they would return, in my way of thinking. Yet, how did they get in? The only thing the men found were mouse droppings, which was no surprise. In a huge attic, mice could easily find a small hole somewhere--but a big one?I worried it in my mind, and called a professional exterminator. He would know that breeding Raccoons were protected by government law. This man found the same thing--no access. What do you people think of that? What would you do? Have you had a similar experience? I had been certain my roof was tight.At my insistence the man looked further. It was possible the Raccoons found a way somewhere down below. (They cannot get into the crawl spaces, so if they found a way down there, why would they not stay like before?) He said they might have found some entrance to crawl into the walls of the older house, and make their way up to and between layers of protection, to "under" the roof above my head. There is a tar and gravel roof left by the builder above which he put the roof trusses. They stayed only a matter of five minutes, so they must have decided it would be too difficult for their "kits" when they had to lead them out.The man looked still further and found a small brown trail in the snow leading to the old shed next door. An appropriate larger hole gaped in the wall near the roof. An old, downed tree root made easy access to crawl up the old wall of the shed.I feel a tremendous relief. They were settled there, no doubt sleeping while we trampled below. My roof was safe--at least for now. They may visit next year--but that is Next Year.

Love and Loyalty in Training Dogs

Much has been written about Positive and Negative reinforcement in dog training, so I mean to speak only of my experiences.I took a number of puppies through basic Novice obedience courses. It is the owner who must take his or her own dog through these trials, and it is the owner who must be trained. Of course the puppies (and dogs) learn along the way.What I did come across in obedience training was negative reinforcement. For example, I had to pinch my dog's ear, causing her pain, before she would take the dumbell. It truly disturbed me. Our Sheltie club joined with a sister club to invite a special dog trainer as a visiting speaker. He trained dogs for police work, bomb, and drug sniffing, etc. What startled me was his statement that he could train a dog for sixteen hours, (my memory is a bit vague here) without treats, and the dog wanted to go on. My eyes were opened. I never again used negative reinforcement.It is pleasant to see a dog walking beside its owner with no leash, ignoring everyone around it but its owner. It is true some dogs are more easily trained than others, but it is a joy to see such a responsible dog and owner knowing the work behind it.I imagine many are aware that to take a dog through trials, it must be registered, in Canada by the Canadian Kennel Club, and in the U.S. by the American Kennel Club. Some clubs offer a basic obedience class for mixed breeds. The Novice classes include Basic obedience and Companion Dog (CD), the Open class, Companion Dog Excellent, (CDX), and the Utility class (UD). The latter dogs are used in movies and television, for instance. There are many other specialized degrees and training.A wonderful poet named Anonymous wrote, "You can't buy loyalty, they say. I bought it, though the other day. You can't buy friendship tried and true. Well, just the same, I bought that too..." The poem is used by most dog breeders, so you can find the rest of it on any breeder's site. Some may think the words trite, but I have found them certainly true. The reason I mention this poem is because of the following.I took a favorite female dog through her CD degree. At the time, I belonged to a local woman's group who looked for interesting items for their meetings. I was asked to talk on my dog since they knew I bred dogs, and because we met in a hall and not a restaurant, I was able to bring my 'girl' along. I had her sitting on a small table, high enough so that all of the one hundred plus women could see her. I was in the midst of quoting the above poem, when unconsciously I put out my hand and touched her head. She looked up at me with adoring eyes, and the whole room let out a collective sigh. I promptly forgot the words to the poem, and had to think hard to get back on track. I will never forget that incident, or my darling Katya, although I took her to other gatherings, putting her through her paces.My favorite dog quote is by H. L. Mencken. "Living with a dog is easy, like living with an idealist." You are the most important person in their world. It is humbling. May we be worthy of their charge

Livestock Guardian Dogs. A Courageous and Lonely Breed of Dog

Upon reading articles and websites about the Livestock Guardian Dog, I was impressed by how lonely and courageous these dogs are, yet they have been guarding flocks for centuries.The puppies are taken from their environment at four weeks of age and placed with a flock of sheep so that they can be imprinted upon them. There they are left. The Shepherd, or Handler brings them food and water, and arranges a place of safety in case they are bothered by the flock. Their success as a Guardian Dog is based on this imprinting, and upon their innate instincts of: Attentiveness—to watch for threats from predators, Trustworthiness—to remain with the flock, and Protectiveness—to drive off predators by barking. The training period (4-14 weeks), can last up to two years, and with certain breeds up to four. If the flock is large, then two, three, or four dogs are used, but each have a different function. One is embedded, the others walk the perimeter.The origin of the practice of using Guardian Dogs goes back in time many thousands of years. Illustrations of these dogs show up on Babylonian and Assyrian (Nineveh) artifacts. For centuries Bedouins all across Europe and Asia worked these dogs with their flocks as they travelled. These shepherds developed their breeds according to their needs. Mountain dogs required heavy, double coats for winter guarding. With threatening predators, such as coyotes, wolves, mountain lions, feral dogs, bears, lynx, and such, the dogs needed to be large and strong to protect the sheep, or to frighten away predators. Lighter dogs, and less coated, were developed for desert areas.Each country has its own unique breed, for example, white dogs for white sheep, and colored or dark dogs for dark sheep or cattle. Only a few of the breeds are known to us in North America, and even less acknowledged.Turkey: The Anatolian Shepherd (brown). It was used also in Africa against Cheetahs. The Akbash (white). The Kangal (black mask with gray).France: The Great Pyrenees (white), also called Pyrenean Mountain Dog. Used by the Basque people.Hungary: The Komondor (white, with a corded coat). The Kuvasz (white), used by Kings and nobles.Tibet: The Tibetan Mastiff (various darker colors). Originator of English, Bull, Neopolitan, and Dogue de Bordeaux Mastiffs.Italy: The Maremma-Abruzzese (white), 2000years old. Used in many areas of the World, such as Australia and New Zealand.Poland: The Tatra (white), Also named Tatra Mountain Sheepdog, Polish Shepherd Dog. From the Carpathian Mountains.Czechoslovakia: The Slovak Cuvac (white). Found only in this country.Romania: The Carpathian Shepherd Dog (white). The Mioritic (white)Russia: (Azerbaijan). The Caucasian Ovcharka (range of colors), Tibet 2000 years old. The South Russian Sheepdog (white).Spain: The Spanish Mastiff (various colors, shown in photo above). The largest Guardian Dog. A large male can weigh over 200 pounds. The Pyrenees Mountain Dog (various colors).Portugal: The Estrela Mountain Dog (black) called The Portuguese Shepherd Dog. The Castro Loboriero (usually black) . Medium Sized dog. Used in small villages for 1000 years.Other countries, such as Yugoslavia (old) Sarplaninac (brown); Kerst Shepherd (gray/black, and Torijak (white and black). Bulgaria has the Karakatchan (mixed colors), Greece, the Hellenic Sheepdog (various colors), a little smaller. Armenia has the Armenian Gasmpr (brown), and Afghanistan, the Sage Korchil (brown), plus others.The Livestock Guardian Dog is not a pet—too big for a family with small children; their size could harm a child. The breeds are too reserved and territorial, although in Europe they have always been loyal to family members when guarding farms and properties. They average in height to the shoulder, 29-30 inches, females somewhat smaller. Their average weight is 125 pounds, females less, but for the Spanish Mastiff, as noted.Some of the breeds are used in North America by farmers and ranchers. Some have used donkeys, or llamas for guarding flocks or cattle, but science proves the dogs most effective.Courageous, brave, the Livestock Guardian Dogs have survived wars across the years, but the breeds have bred true. As a former breeder of pet dogs, I cannot but feel torn for the puppies of the world who must undergo such rigorous training. Take a look at them. They are big, cuddly dogs, but they cannot be cuddled, cannot be pets. All of this is sacrificed for their work. They can if they land in North America, but the majority of these dogs are in Europe still, in mountainous areas, basically alone, guarding sheep.Copyright Audrey MoorhouseYou can find a great deal of information about Livestock Guardian Dogs on the web, such as breeds, training, and statistics on European and North American studies.http://www.lgd.org The LGD site. Much information here.http://www.canismajor.com/dog/livestck.html Breed Informationhttp://www.canids.org/occasionalpapers/livestockguardiandogs.pdf The LGD current Use Worldwide (2001 paper by Robin Rigg)

Odd Events This Time of Year. Should I be Surprised

On my wildlife calendar for January sits a cold, frozen-looking Great Blue Heron. Its legs appear to be stuck in the ice. I understand that in spearing their fish in ponds and lakes, they stand like that--only their eyes (and heads at times) move. Yet, how can he see into the pond for fish when it is covered with snow? It is a puzzle.I also understand that the Great Blue Heron ranges here along the Great Lakes and Our River during winter. In summer it breeds farther north, but generally spends winters in Central America. The puzzle continues. Why would they stay in such cold?It has been dreadfully cold here the last little while, with bitter winds and furnaces going full tilt. Yet, yesterday it rained--all day. My driveway looked like a skating rink. I visited the local town the other day, and the air bit at me, the whole area frozen. What is going on with the weather? It is like a Yo-Yo. One day the birds are freezing in their nests; the next day they are trying to keep dry. With our huge snow dump recently, the birds seem grateful for the food. After that rain they must keep from being drowned. How strange!Now the weather is back to freezing again, just enough to keep things icy. We should be so grateful. Saturday night, it was freezing, and the house temperature went so low I had to change my dual energy to oil. It warmed up quickly, so I turned it down again. Something happened.I listened to scrambling, and then chewing from my attic. How did the beast get in? I thought my attic completely sealed from invaders, especially Raccoons. The only door is accessible by a tall ladder, and padlocked. They broke in through the vents? The aggression of the chewing bespoke a male. They are fat guys weighing, what...at least twenty pounds. How could they squeeze in, being that solid? The female Racoons are smaller, but even so...I heard her last night scrambling around. The weather has moderated, so no doubt the male is back to his schedule of 'leave at dusk and return at dawn.' The female stays out a shorter time.I hope they are not breeding. I thought that lovely time comes in March. Oh dear! What am I going to do now? I need advice. Once the kits arrive I legally must allow them to stay.I suppose there will always be odd events, but I am surprised about the Raccoons. It is a mystery I must solve.

The Red Squirrel, a New Visitor to My Garden

I have recently seen a Red Squirrel in my garden, and on the other side of my house. I must say that I have never seen one in all of my years in this area. Has the Red managed to take over the territory of the ubiquitous Grey Squirrel?I began to see a Red Squirrel several weeks ago, after the first snow (that stayed on the ground). Yesterday we had a substantial snowfall. Today, I saw a Red Squirrel running up my tree. I was amazed at how much smaller it was to the Grey squirrel--half the size. My Red has a gorgeous red tail. Like the Grey, the Red squirrel is a Tree Squirrel. I was also surprised to read in some places that they are an endangered species. Other places say no. Apparently the Greys carry a disease for which the Reds have no immunity, so I hope my little squirrel survives.I read that the Red Squirrel is a solitary creature, unlike the Greys who run up and down the the trees chasing one another. The only chasing done by the Reds, is when the female is in estrous, and is ready to mate. She gives off a scent the males recognize, and they chase her until one of them mates with her. She might have multiple males in her short period of reproduction. She would produce one litter a year and have up to three or four offspring. I understand there might be only one Red squirrel in a large territory. Among other things, they eat spruce buds, needles and cones. Perhaps that is what attracts them to my area now, since I have a number of pine, spruce, and even fir trees not far away.How exciting to have a small Red Squirrel running around my house and garden! I hope the squirrel can establish a territory. I am weary of looking at only Grey squirrels. Let's have a little Red. Have they found a territory among the Greys? Or is it a passing moment or two?Do you have Red Squirrels in Your Area? This photo was taken by D.Gordon E. Robertson, 2008-03-30 and the source is: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Red_squirrel.jpg The file is licensed under http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.en

Surprise Happenings at Christmastime

Today is Christmas Day. I meant to post this yesterday, but things got pretty busy. A day before Christmas Eve day we had a surprise Snow Storm--only about 2-3 inches, but perfect for Christmas. That day, when the storm subsided, I went out to clean my car. I forgot, however, about the freezing rain of the day before. It was a struggle to scrape and clean.In the midst of the work, I heard familiar sounds. It was Honking Geese. Geese? The end of December? I looked up, and sure enough, a long string of Canada Geese appeared high above me. They were finally on their way south along The River. The leader had a follower to his right to spell him off. No doubt they would reform into a V at some point, but to leave it so late? I hope they meet no storms. I began to wonder why they were late--waiting for chums to come? Warmer weather gave them false hope of a "little longer." What our animal friends do always adds mystery that makes our lives more interesting. The sight brightened my difficult work.The birds appear to be resting with little activity. I suspect with the snow so late, they had lots of time to gather food and store it in their nests. I'll soon have to clean and refill the large bird Feeder. Some of the food might have got wet. The food looks clumped. I need a chum to assist me, but Christmas is not the time to ask. A friend came and brought his new "smart" book to show me. We had some fun with it. He offered to refill the feeder, another surprise.I hope you all have had a Wonderful Christmas Day, and that you will enjoy the whole Holiday Season, and will have many lovely surprises, not only in gifts, but in the warm relationships that mean so much to all of us at this special time of year.

Memories From the Corners of My Mind

Late this summer I had memories of a gorgeous bird I saw in my garden, but other activities crowded in, and I put off writing about it. I never forgot. If you have seen a PINE GROSBEAK you will understand.At first I saw a movement to my right as I worked on my computer. A bird sat outside my window, staring at me. I had never seen such a bird before and was intrigued. It was obviously a female--mid-sized, rough feathers, with a rusty head, grey back and lighter grey tummy. She was curious about me as I was about her. I wanted to see her mate. She hopped to the chokecherry as I searched.There he was on the ground in all his glory--pecking at seeds. He looked familiar. There was something about him, but he was stunning. I went for my field glasses. Wow! And my book. The beaks did it. They were GROSBEAKS, with the familiar, fat, yellow beak. These were PINE GROSBEAKS. Some years ago the ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK came to my garden, and the more familiar EVENING GROSBEAK. These both have moved away.I watched ever so long, charmed. Of course the PINE GROSBEAKS were only passing through, but they stayed for a few days, perhaps drawn to a number of pines on my property, transplanted years ago by my husband as young trees. The trees are now mature.I called a friend. She looked the bird up, knew it, and had seen one a few years ago. If you do not know the bird, find a picture of one, or go online. I'll upload one here if I can find one. Do enjoy its beauty. You will have a warm memory if you see one.

Now Goes the Golden Autumn Far Away, Now Nearer Comes the Winter to My Door

The Title, I have quoted before. It is from a poem I love by that wonderful poet, Anonymous. The concept suits the mood of the time. I'd love to quote the whole poem to you, but, no, that would never do. Sigh! I am writing about my garden and surrounds. I must get on to my little world of activity. Autumn truly has gone. This young Goose has yet to mature for his flight south.Actually, there has been little activity in my garden of late, since we seem to be on the edge of events. The snow did not come last night, but is said to come today. The weather gradually grows colder. The nights dip below zero. Mostly rain patters down onto our roads. We have been spoiled.The Birds come and go--the little ones. Summer birds have long gone, but the Winter birds must be collecting and filling their storehouses for the coming days. They play 'least in sight.' The Spiders and Insects have long since hibernated--if that is the correct term.Soon all will be covered by layers of that white stuff, so the Birds will have some difficulty finding food. I must get a friend to refill my large feeder. The thought of dragging out my ladder tires me. It will be good to see my feathered friends come seeking once more. The BLUE JAYS have 'chewed me out' for not putting out more peanuts. I only managed to fill the ledges once. They kept up a natter I tried to ignore, I got so busy. I will go out and give them their treats eventually.Yes, Autumn has surely gone, and Winter hovers here in this area. Those of you in warm climates in the south must be pleased to miss our changing seasons. There is charm, and drama, dare I say it, in these changes? The Seasons become a Part of One.What are your Seasons like?

MY ROBINS FOR ANOTHER YEAR

My ROBIN sat on her same nest above my bedroom window. In two weeks the nest appeared to have eggs. Two weeks later, three baby ROBINS appeared. (Her first lot were four.) With two weeks of worms, or insects from Mom and Dad ROBIN, the birds became fat. I kept the Wild Grape vines away from the nest, and soon the nest was too small for them. Mom and Dad kept bringing food, but the largest baby wanted to fly. He kept trying his wings. I could see he was "itching" to go. The birds were sitting on top of one another, there was so little space.

Yesterday, they "flew the coup," so to speak. I had visitors. I had shown them the nest and the little ones, then we went on with our work. They had come to cut the overripe chokecherry fruit, which my friend was going to use to make jelly, and I went on with paint stripping my window. By the time I had said goodbye to my friends, there was a ruckus in the back.

I went in, and sure enough, I saw from my back door, the little ones had fledged. Mom ROBIN was squawking like mad on the back fence. I could hear the little ones chirping loudly on the ground somewhere at the back. I went to the garden side and walked around. The Male ROBIN, squawking on the roof, flew off when he saw me. I stayed back, but the mother was unafraid of me. She continued squawking, and pointed with her beak to the yard behind mine.

Sooo, I said, "Okay, Mom," I'll go after the cat. I grabbed a stick, then trudged down the road, across the cross road, and up the next road to the area behind my house. Sure enough, a cat was stalking the birds. Mom ROBIN was still squawking up a tree. I yelled and banged my stick and the cat ran under the shed of my neighbor, who was away. Sooo, I trudged back home, and got small boards to fill in the area used by the feral cats (I wrote of them earlier), now used by that street`s cats to stalk birds. My neighbor had tried to fill it in, but not well.

With things quietened down, I went in and relaxed, but soon the squawking began again. I went and looked out. There, was my neighbor`s cat from across the street, stretched out leisurely on a tree stump, watching the activity in the yard. I could hear the little ones chirping. Mom and Pop ROBIN were squawking away again. I rushed out and yelled at the cat, whom I have chased many times, until he toddled off down the drive and back to his house. He has been successful at times with birds, and I often chase him from my yard because of the feeders.

It was a busy, but sad day. The birdlings are gone, as are the parents, and all is quiet again. I can watch the small birds at my feeder, but it is not the same with the ROBINS gone. I will have to wait until next year for more such excitement.

NEWBORNS, or NEWLY HATCHED

I have been watching a ROBIN for some days now. She built a nest on the top of my bedroom window. It was a wise choice. The roof overhung the area, protecting the nest from rain--and cats. I noticed the nest at first from the inside of my window, by the trailing fronds of twigs and straw hanging down.

The ROBIN came back regularly and finally stayed, sitting presumably on eggs. I understand the male assists, but I saw that later. She, or he, sat.

Then, one day when she was gone, beaks stuck up from the nest as I looked from the back window. I watched daily as the little ROBINS grew, their beaks open expectantly for their parents to come with food. Usually they settled down inside the nest after they ate. I tried to be as unobtrusive as possible. A few swung their heads my way and watched me.

There were four, one always bigger than the others, and fat like his father ROBIN, I saw him in my garden on the other side of the house, and one day after mother had fed her brood, along flew father ROBIN with food as well. Mom was slimmer. Soon the fat little guy was always standing in the nest. There couldn't be much room for four. I knew they would fledge soon. The other birds grew, but usually hunkered down in the nest. He sat high, or stood.

Surprisingly, there was little noise. It only occurred when Mom and Pop came to the nest, then they all competed for the worms. Guess who got the most. I wanted to watch carefully because of that fat little guy--but I missed it. Circumstances called me elsewhere, and within an hour or so, all of the birds had gone.

I heard a lot of chirping, or cheeping from the next yard, but I could not see them. How deflating. I saw little sign of any young ROBIN, with its spotted breast, as one usually did, pecking away for worms, Mom not far away. No, it was not the case this time. They had all flown up into the trees. When will Mom and Pop teach them to catch worms?

Now, I must look up into the trees in my garden and listen to a baby ROBIN cheep away. That leaves the three neighborhood cats frustrated, myself also for different reasons. I cannot see any sign of my newly hatched fledgling ROBINS.

SPRING IS SPRUNG

"The flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of the birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land." Song of Solomon 2:12

Well...not the TURTLE--at least not around here. I saw one at the pond when I used to walk up regularly some years ago--although the point is, SPRING has finally arrived. The past week was cold and rainy, but the last few days have been sunny, not exactly warm. We are promised good days and more heat this coming week.

The BIRDS are off building nests. Above my bedroom window a nest hangs down. The ROBIN parent comes and goes. She saw me today as I shut the window, so I hope I didn't disturb her. That area has been the ROBIN'S territory for some years, but it is the first time a nest has sprung up on top of the window.

An AMERICAN GOLDFINCH and her mate have been active outside my den window on my Chokecherry tree. How drab her coat is. CHIPPING SPARROWS with their red caps find the tree interesting as well, perhaps with the buds coming out. I Saw my first young CEDAR WAXWING, and the CARDINALS are around. My feeders are empty because of the presence of the BLACKBIRDS, so it is pleasant to see different BIRDS flitting about the garden.

The sun shines, a good sign of SPRING, and for the BIRDS, who are more active on sunny days.

Has SPRING sprung in your area?

A SAD TIME FOR US ALL

It is Sad that the BLACKBIRDS have returned to this area. One day last week there was food in my two feeders that my birds were enjoying, and then I saw one or two BLACKBIRDS, whether RUSTY, or BREWERS, they were here too short a time for me to determine. Soon all of the cousins were there as well: the PURPLE GRACKLES, the RED WINGS, the COWBIRDS, and of course, their mates. Always there were only a half-dozen, but in two days, my feeders were stripped bare. Nor are they friendly feeders. Everyone else is pushed out. I especially do not like the COWBIRDS, because I understand they lay their eggs in a small bird's nest. Instinct causes the mom to feed the healthier chick to maintain the species. Ugly, that. I have heard that JAYS do the same thing as well, but have not verified it. It is a Sad time for me because I have determined not to feed BLACKBIRDS.

As I have said before, we are on a flight path for the birds, seeing we are near The River. I used to walk miles up into the woods and saw the BLACKBIRDS, both spring and fall, mass by the thousands in the tops of the tall trees of the woods. In the fall, before they leave, they come down near the river, and mass on the trees here. No, I will not feed them.

Which leaves me with few BIRDS in my garden. The JUNCOS and SPARROWS come scrabbling for what they can find, but the DOVES and JAYS have gone. I hear the CARDINAL'S glorious song, but they only fly through, or sit high up in a tree and sing.

Sad also, is the fact Spring is truly not here. This morning it snowed, not much, but areas a little north of here have quite a bit on the ground, and further west they are grappling with not only snow but floods. We have had mostly rain here. It is cold and dull, with leaden skies--mostly windy.

No, it is a Sad time for us all. When will Spring come?

Ah! I am looking at an AMERICAN GOLDFINCH sitting on my tree outside my window. No doubt he is just passing through, but a good sign, no?

WE ALL REST IN HOPE

Most folk I speak with are hopeful Spring is on its way.

I am unsure what my BIRDS think about all of the NOISE and SEWER WORK going on around here. No doubt THEY feed in the early morning hours when all is quiet and still. I am not up then. I saw a few BIRDS on the weekend when the machines were still and silent. I then had the large feeder re-stocked. When it is nearly empty, a pair of DOVES come, sit, and set up a watch. Hopeful?

I damaged my car by the heavy ruts and large gravel on and around my road as the men worked, AND, they knocked down one of my lovely pine trees. Sigh! I am hopeful the men will soon be finished and gone, and Spring truly on its way. I will be glad when the DYNAMITE blasts are gone as well. After this, the pipes must be laid, the road must be covered....

Spring popped its head out a month ago, then retreated into Rain, Sleet, and more Snow. BUDS are coming out, and BULBS poke their heads up from the ground, but THEY all seem frozen in time. That must be my imagination--or is it hope that things will grow soon.

With such goings on, the GEESE are noticeably absent. They are here, but are playing least in sight. I am in a fly zone. On sunny days I see THEM flying to and from the fields and The River. Surely THEY would hope for quiet days and sunny weather.

Today a TITMOUSE came to my window--in fact, flew against it, as did another. It was unusual, so I got up and watched. The TITMOUSE landed on a branch near the window, and I saw the crest.

Now, there is a Hopeful sigh of Spring!

I HAVE BEEN THINKING ABOUT DOGS

Lately, I have been thinking about DOGS. I spoke with a friend yesterday who has been fostering a DOG that was imprinted upon her. Sadly, the rules are that eventually she must give it up to a family. Sadly, not from her point of view, but the DOG'S. The ANIMAL was dreadfully starved for affection because it was one of a litter of PUPPIES abandoned in the woods of winter--the MOTHER and a number of the PUPPIES frozen to death. This, of course, is due to the cruelty of MAN.

I have acquired several older DOGS in my time. They never quite "settle" in. It is as though they cannot forget.

We are given ANIMALS to nurture, feed, and love. When we do, that love comes back to us. I am disgustedly aware of CRUEL MEN--AND WOMEN, who selfishly abandon these ANIMALS for their own twisted reasons. Life is not fair--definitely not fair for some ANIMALS.

I have been thinking about DOGS because I intend to get one again, after a long period of time, and--certainly from an ANIMAL SHELTER.

Look around, people. There are hundreds of abandoned ANIMALS who require love. For all your expense and care, THEY will return you back TENFOLD in LOVE and LOYALTY.

I will try to do my part and get an abandoned DOG from a SHELTER. I am definitely thinking about a DOG.

Are YOU?

THE STORMS OF THIS WORLD

The STORMS we thought would never end have come and gone--in this area. Out west is still struggling. Only last week we glumly shovelled piles of snow. Surprising signs of spring are evident around us.

The BIRDS are busy finding sustenance, and perhaps cowed by the DYNAMITE explosions on the next street. (Sewer and water are going in.) The workers come to my street next week, and if I jump at a DYNAMITE blast from there--what willl it be like just outside my door?

With the devastation in JAPAN, and tremendous loss of life, one's mind cannot help but go to the ANIMALS. Many countries are now assisting the distressed country, and IFAW, (Inernational Fund For Animal Welfare) is on standby--to come when requested. What ANIMALS--let alone people, could have survived such a nightmare? Perhaps more to come. The mind boggles.

Yet here in my small corner, as one looks out and sees the BIRDS flitting about around the feeders, one cannot mind a STORM or two to ruffle all of our feathers.

We must be grateful and do what we can to help--if only to pray for those involved in the larger STORMS of this world.

What was your reaction to the devastation? Some of you are very near.