A bright spot

This past week, West Tennessee has experienced  sleet, snow and extremely cold temperatures, which have rendered many homebound.  One of the things I have enjoyed during this time has been watching a flock of cardinals that have been visiting the feeders.  Their activity and beauty have been a bright spot in some bitterly cold and icy days.

“Even dark days have a bright spot.  Make it your goal to find it.”  ~Lisa Petty

Brown Thrasher

I spotted this Brown Thrasher in my backyard early last summer.  He picked up a few sunflower seeds under the feeder and then headed to the birdbath for a quick dip.  The large yellow eyes and downcurved bill, which gave him a grumpy look before his bath, added a certain charm when he was wet.

“Create your own style.  Let it be unique for yourself and identifiable for others.”  ~Anna Wintour

A chosen spot

When I first arrived at the boardwalk, I could see this heron at a distance out past the trees.  I thought that my presence might spook him and cause him to fly away.  Instead, to my amazement, I saw him take flight, settling in a spot closer to where I was standing.  As I watched, he casually snatched a couple of tiny fish out of the water.  Then he remained in his chosen spot, watching me as I walked up and down the board walk.

“Happiness is the settling of the soul into its most appropriate spot.”  ~Aristotle

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds

“While it may seem small, the ripple effects of small things is extraordinary.”  Matt Bevin

Napping sparrow

This sparrow found a nice, quiet, partially sunny spot on the side of the birdbath to take a little siesta.  It was hard not to yawn as I watched this peaceful little scene.

“… May we learn to honor the hammock, the siesta, the nap and the pause in all its forms.”  ~Alice Walker