A Bustling Backyard - Mr. Zuliani

There is so much to gain from just observing.

As a teacher of writing, I always encourage students to use their senses to make their stories come alive.  So, I thought I would give this advice a try.

It's brutally cold outside, so I won't be taking my afternoon walk. I decide to work on my slice of life. 

I wander over to a quiet area in my kitchen, right in front of a bay window, overlooking my backyard.  Just outside the window, there is a black pole on which two bird feeders are dangling.  On the ground remains cracked corn and birdseed that I had sprinkled before I left for school.  

The action at the feeders reminds me of airplanes landing and taking off from an airport.  Look at all those birds!  Sparrows, juncos, female goldfinches, woodpeckers, even bluebirds grab seeds and go.  How are they staying warm?  Where are they sleeping at night?  Are they getting enough food to eat?  My mind is wondering.

Here comes a small flock of doves.  They land and heartily peck the seed along the frozen ground.  Suddenly, they scatter!  A squirrel runs through them and aims for the feeders.  I watch him (or her) climb the black pole and start devouring seed from the red-colored feeder.  He looks so hungry.

I get distracted by my cat, Violet, who's joined me at the window.  She is watching intently, wishing she could chase the squirrel off the feeder.  I talk to her, give her a loving pet, and realize it's getting darker outside.  Time to finish my slice of life.  I am glad I took the time to watch, as I love the action in my backyard.

There is so much to gain from just observing.