Monday morning, standing at the window, I was mesmerized as the frozen snow melted like huge silver raindrops. Quickly the white garden was taking on Winter color again thanks to the sun in the Carolina blue sky. We'd filled the feeders and splashed some water on the frozen bird bath. In no time the finches, wrens, cardinals, and woodpeckers arrived ready to eat after several days of picking through frozen landscape. Then I saw them, in the little leafless dogwood tree, my dear pair of Eastern bluebirds, glowing in the sunshine.
By the time I ran for a camera and returned, one had flown away, but this one stayed for several minutes and I took pics through the window. I think it's the male as his beautiful blue was very intense, females are usually paler.
As we know, bluebirds supposedly bring happiness.....and this I believe. Making me happy right now are thoughts of dear friends coming to visit from far away. I'm rushing about making the house festive, planning a welcoming meal, and praying it will warm up for their stay so we can get out and enjoy the Christmas festivities around town.
The logs are piled close to the back door........a fire in the hearth is always welcoming. As we nibble English Stilton cheese and sip ruby port, pull Christmas crackers for the prizes inside, and giggle at the silly paper hats that we'll wear, all will definitely remind us of England and home.
Posting may be sporadic for the coming week as I'll be very busy! Just know I'm thinking of you as you ready for Christmas.....and I'll be back to visit you online soon.
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