It’s been an unusual winter this year. Today, the air feels more as it would in March. Many days this winter have well above normal temperatures. And, there has been no snow that needed shoveling or that lingered on the ground for longer than 24 hours. The pond near our home has not frozen solid enough for the usual skating and ice fishing.
The unseasonable weather has left many on edge and nervous. Conversations turn to anxious discussions about global climate changes out of control. Other parts of the world, we hear in the news reports, are having quite the reverse turn of weather. Yet, despite the concern, many have admitted that the lack of snow and ice has been enjoyable. Of course, there has been just enough bitter cold and chilling wind to remind us all that it is still winter here. The weather could turn at any time. Those of us who have seen it snow in May mutter under our breath that winter is not over yet.
Despite that, I can now here the cheeping birds changing their tunes as they take on the challenges of finding a mate. Walking back to the parking lot from the Botanical Garden a bare pussy willow displayed its spring buds. Left within the branches of the small tree, clearly visible now that the leaves are gone, was a nest. It was carefully constructed and looked as if it had been placed there as an object for winter interest by the gardeners. Yet, I believe only a bird could have crafted this tangled weaving of grass and twigs. The pussy willow buds and nest spoke of spring. Is it false or true? I would guess that some teasing mocking bird pair made us stop and question our senses.
It was a perfect environment for a mocking bird nest, close to the garden with Dogwood blossoms, Holly berries, Sassafras, and Virginia Creeper, not to mention a tempting supply of caterpillars, beetles and earthworms. What better eating for hungry Mockingbird chicks and their parents?
Yes, just as I stop when I hear a mockingbird’s song bringing messages from other species and other places it has traveled, I stopped to observe this nest as if it were a banner. As I walked away, I thought that spring should be appreciated in the moment whether it is season or not. Otherwise, we might just miss it.
My Turn 