I watch as they come, one after another — some to BATHE, some to drink — in the heated bird bath. We have a TACIT understanding, the birds and I, that I will dependably put food and water out for them and they will oblige by coming to our backyard. We cheerfully ignore one another during the hot days, but once the temperatures drop, we are very aware of each other. There is no cat or dog in the yard to TAUNT or threaten them, so they feel quite safe hanging around waiting. I step out each morning, politely saying hello, as I refill feeders and replenish the water. They stare at me from a safe distance — mostly doves, wrens, finches, juncos — ready to land and feast. Their various shades of brown, TAWNY, bits of red, and flashes of white blend with the fallen leaves and grey skies. I am fascinated by how this drab color scheme nevertheless conveys energy and brings me so much joy. I
could watch their activities for hours as if it were the most multicolored spectacular production I have ever seen.

Georg’ann

We walk along the pier,
headed toward the sea lion viewing spot,
our GREAT pleasure to watch them
lolling on the platforms
that support the structure.
Their huge bodies tucked in mass
a few feet above the water.
Along the way we stop
at Marini’s candy shop
to buy a pound of TASTY
salt water TAFFY.
The sugary bites we put in our mouths
are as soft and sweet as my daughter’s sun kissed cheeks.
I look from her to the creatures below,
noting the TAWNY markings
of their fur and her freckles.

Heather