The Joppa Flats Chorale

Day 64: The Joppa Flats Chorale is all kitted out in their new hats, ready to sing "Whence Comes This Rush of Wings Afar" and "Noel of Small Birds" (the latter written by me). The Bird Gang normally gets to come out of storage for an annual portrait, so it seemed fitting to invite the larger members to model the dozen hats I've created to be sold in the Joppa Flats Education Center's gift shop. This program is supported by volunteer knitters, and all proceeds go to benefit Joppa's bird-banding station. It was a way I could contribute to them without stressing my personal budget; "sweat-equity," if you will, if only the finger muscles get exercised. Joppa's team does good work. I had the privilege of visiting the center when I was visiting a friend in New Hampshire several years ago and was immediately impressed by their work with young people. I suspect quite a few future scientists will have found their beginnings at Joppa, and that, dear readers, is something to sing...or Crow about!

Chaos Beneath The Tree!

Day 72: Nooooooo! They only get let out once or twice a year, so you can't blame them for getting excited, but this was the scene this morning, ribbons and wrappings everywhere, and almost every present pecked or scratched. Utter chaos! But I couldn't be cross, not with all the happy chirping of seasonal carols (never mind that the crows sing off-key). The Bird Gang would like me to wish everyone the best for the holidays, and after all, there's only one more sleep 'til Christmas.

Merry Christmas From The Bird House!

Day 73: They're out! And they'd like to wish you all the best for the holiday season. For most of the year, my bird collection resides on shelves and in an enormous tin, safe from the predations of pussycats and protected from dust fallout. For a few days in December, they emerge to occupy furniture and floor space and are generally allowed to remain until Skunk or Tip gets a little too interested and drags somebody off. I hate to admit that only a few of them have names, but each one is loved and petted as they are put in place. So, without further ado, I will speak on their behalf and wish you the merriest of Christmases and a happy New Year!