Early Spring (northern Great Lakes)
The Chickadee is our state bird; they are supposed to be year-round inhibatants; haven't seen one in ages; just snow, ice, gray, and more of the same; I fear the Chickadees are following our Canadian friends to Florida for the winter.
Three days ago I heard the season's first geese. Yesterday a pair strolled thru the yard. No doubt checking out the frozen food display.
In the distance I can also hear increased comments from Ravens, Crows, and Jays. And I've seen a few early gulls soaring over the lake.
Today I'm descaling the coffee pot and a humidifier. The house's odor reminds me of my youth and the "Yeast" Plant adjacent to the Paper Mill on the edge of town.
Just a little longer and it'll be warm enough for open windows and fresh air. I can hardly wait to again hear the Sandhills chattering in route to the lake for the day's bath and drink.
Still a couple of months: before the first Redwing perches on a Cattail; before you jump a pair of mallards trying to nest in the corner culvert; and before landing practice as the Jays fledge.
Well a guy can dream; wonder if it's warm enough to go out for a walk?