]I only went out for a walk and finally concluded to stay out till sundown, for going out, I found, was really going in. ~John Muir (1838–1914)

Have you noticed that there is much going on in the avian world these days? Early morning chatter, frequent worm hunting sorties, nests in all sorts of places, noisy cheeps of constantly hungry babies – its absolutely delightful to watch their antics. An “Ivy-Leaved” education for a naturalist awaits.

Whilst very occupied with non-gardening projects this past week, I’ve been getting my down time at the end of each day by just sitting in the garden and observing the goings on. Even a few minutes at this has been enough to restore and refresh my mind. So I thought I’d encourage you to do the same. We could all use some daily soothing of nerves and spirit. Enjoy the world around you and let it do its magic.

The Nest

The nest from last summer
survived the harsh winter
Couched now amidst
awakening limbs of rose
it sits patiently, purposefully.

In the clear light
of the mid-morning sun
the sparrow alights
to look over this time tested
weather-honed, empty cradle.

Are there signs that say
ready-made housing
immediate occupancy
solid construction
impeccable neighborhood?

It matters not to the sparrow
that the robins lived here before
nor is there avian concern
for blockbusting practices
An empty house waits ready
offering equal opportunity
Sans gates, sans pretension.

(c) 2014 Shobha Vanchiswar
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