I signed up online to submit bird observations for my backyard.  Reports for three days have been submitted so far.  This has made me realize that my favorite winter birds are slowly moving on.

One lonely pine grosbeak sang from a tall tree.  There used to be about ten of them.  The two dozen common redpolls that have been emptying the tray feeder are now less than ten in number.  I loved watching all their action outside my window.

I didn't want to believe that winter is almost over.  My favorite little winter birds are leaving but it means that my favorite little summer birds are not far behind.  I'll be waiting anxiously for the ruby throated hummingbirds to return.


The snow on the ski trails is almost gone.  The roads are dry, bare and covered in sand and grit.  My driveway is covered in a layer of ice that I have been trying to 'tame' with kitty litter.  I'm hoping that some snow will still arrive.  Maybe all the old snow will melt off making way for a fresh layer to play in.  I'm not ready to put the skis away but if gardening season happens to come early, if you can't beat 'em, join 'em.