Wintry Thrills and Chills

Silver eyed blackbirds from above and beige browned turtle doves stake out the yard searching in need between the fallen leaves for seed. Red winged orange cardinals appear calm awaiting their turns to spear as burnt umber wrens rush with burnished sparrows hiding in the brush, A half dozen burly furred squirrels race with each other straddling trees in the chase; peeking in and out the thicket for cues where tag and play ensues. Aggressive blue jays screech pushing everyone aside in their reach, pouncing on squirrel and bird alike save the dominant silver eyes blackbird spike. Few are brave enough to stand and hold their ground taking in the yard that abounds as they run or fly rather than stay to quick escape to sky or tree away. With the sudden early wintry chills each recognize the familiar thrills no longer come at dawning skipping in the earlier mornings. The yard is still alive with chatter and play as creatures of the garden thrive ready to greet the challenge of the day.