chirping at the homestead

(yes I'm really running with this Alaska metaphor)

Today was really busy at work and then since I was running so late rather than pick up groceries while I was at the grocery store (where I work) I had to rush home so my third shift hubby could get to sleep and then Abe and I returned to the grocery store. Deep breath... we didn't get outside to enjoy the fresh air and warmth (which we were actually lucky to take in this evening since it down poured all day (not complaining; the rain is great)) until 8PM but we spent a great 40 minutes outside.

I think my biggest observation today is that I don't really hear the birds unless I'm listening for them. There were some incredibly boisterous robins leading the choir this evening. I actually laughed at their enthusiasm a few times. Bird songs are one of my greatest joys in life. But truthfully this evening while we were outside each time I got to focusing on which ever task I was working at I also stopped hearing the birds. Their songs never grew quieter. The beauty in the most natural of music never faded but I stopped hearing them when I wasn't listening. It kind of made me sad but then I'd stop what I was doing and listen to the loud energetic musical creatures and smile an even bigger smile than the last time I found myself stopping to listen. They were honestly very loud. It wasn't that I had to focus to hear them, not in the least. I just stopped hearing them when I wasn't focusing. Gee, how often in life does this same exact scenario play out in a million different ways?

I've said it more times than I care to admit, but please friends remember to look for the lovelies and stop and listen to the music of life. We're surrounded by constant beauty and yet we miss it so often when we don't remember to look (and listen).

This evening while some very fluffy robins led the neighborhood birds in a chirping contest I cleared out some dead perennials to make way for new growth, picked up some fresh dog dirt, and racked a few select spots in the yard while my BIG helper excavated the tomato bed. He makes me smile so much!

We found the very first blooms of the year... I know, you all WAAAAY beat us to it but spring is very slow going here on the lake in Michigan.

AND the hyacinth are well on their way to making their glorious debut and just in time for Easter. Yep, I love being outdoors!